The U.S. Defense Department has unveiled a security assistance package for Ukraine valued at up to $250 million, aiming to bolster the country's defense capabilities in its ongoing fight against Russia's unprovoked invasion. The package includes essential components such as air defense capabilities, artillery, antitank weapons, and other equipment critical for Ukraine's defense.
This marks the 54th drawdown of military equipment for Ukraine from the Defense Department's inventories since August 2021. The latest assistance package comes at a crucial juncture amid negotiations on Capitol Hill regarding President Joe Biden's supplemental request to Congress for continued funding for military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine.
Defense officials have emphasized the urgency of securing additional funds, warning that without congressional action, further U.S. assistance for Ukraine could be jeopardized, especially as Russia's war approaches the two-year mark. Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder stressed the importance of passing the supplemental request, stating, "It is imperative that we have the funds needed to ensure that they get the most urgent battlefield capabilities that they require."
In a recent letter to lawmakers, DOD Comptroller Michael J. McCord outlined plans to obligate the remaining $1 billion in funds authorized by Congress to replace U.S. inventories of weapons provided to Ukraine by the end of this month. The security assistance package announced today is likely the last until Congress authorizes additional funds.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to Washington earlier this month included discussions with President Biden, defense officials, and lawmakers. During these talks, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for U.S. support and emphasized Ukraine's urgent need for continued assistance. President Biden pledged unwavering support, asserting that the U.S. "will not walk away from Ukraine" and urging lawmakers to authorize additional funding.
Biden underscored the significance of continued assistance, stating, "Without supplemental funding, we are rapidly coming to an end of our ability to help Ukraine respond to the urgent operational demands that it has." He highlighted the need to prove Russian President Vladimir Putin wrong, emphasizing the commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight against aggression.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III reiterated the United States' "unshakable" commitment to supporting Ukraine as it defends itself against Russian aggression in introductory remarks ahead of Zelenskyy's address at the National Defense University in Washington. The unfolding situation underscores the importance of timely and sustained international support for Ukraine's defense efforts.
