The United States has announced new aid packages for Ukraine, including nearly $2.5 billion to strengthen defense capabilities and $3.4 billion to stabilize the economy. The package includes the immediate transfer of weapons such as HIMARS missiles, artillery shells, and air defense systems, as well as long-term procurement of critical weapons systems. The funds will also support the work of government institutions and fund important reforms to fight corruption and strengthen the rule of law.
This was reported by White House and U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.
Nearly $2.5 billion in U.S. security assistance: what is in the new package?
US President Joe Biden has announced a total of nearly $2.5 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, including immediate arms and long-term defense assistance.
According to the White House website, a portion of the total, $1.25 billion, will be provided under Presidential Decision Authority (PDA) for the immediate transfer of military equipment from US Department of Defense stockpiles. Another $1.22 billion will be provided under the Ukraine Security Initiative (USAI) for the long-term procurement of critical weapons systems.
Joe Biden noted that these funds will help Ukraine obtain both operational means for combat operations and new air defense systems, artillery and other weapons for long-term defense. According to him, the United States will continue to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities throughout his presidency.
U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said the new PDA package includes HIMARS missiles, air defense munitions, 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds, Javelin, AT-4 and TOW anti-tank systems, anti-drone systems, armored vehicles, grenades, explosives, communications equipment and air-to-ground munitions. In addition, the funds will cover the costs of maintaining previously transferred weapons, training the Ukrainian military, purchasing spare parts, and transportation.
"The United States and more than 50 countries are united in providing Ukraine with the capabilities it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression," Blinken said.
The U.S. government also announced that $1.22 billion in USAI will fund new orders for critical weapons systems that will be an important part of Ukraine's long-term defense capabilities.
3.4 Billion in Direct Budget Support
In addition to military assistance, the United States is providing $3.4 billion in direct budget support to Ukraine. These funds will be used to ensure the operation of government institutions, maintain essential services, and stabilize the economy during the war.
According to U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, this assistance is critical to ensuring Ukraine's sovereignty and its fight against Russian aggression. The package was allocated in coordination with USAID and the U.S. State Department and is contingent on reforms to strengthen law enforcement, increase transparency in government agencies, and strengthen anti-corruption measures.
The U.S. government emphasizes that support for Ukraine is critical to the global democratic order.
"Ending Russia's illegal invasion will send a powerful message to autocrats around the world about the steadfastness of the United States," Washington sums up.
Author: Danylo Pievchev