The United States has declared a military aid package of USD 400 million for Ukraine, as the nation remains in dire need of Western assistance amidst escalating pressure from Russia.
Kyiv is set to receive its third package after the US approved a national security supplemental last month, allocating USD 61 billion for the city.
The latest bundle comprises Patriot air defense munitions and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, both of which have played a vital role in safeguarding Ukraine’s airspace and ensuring the safety of its urban areas.
Ukraine required additional High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems and 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds to counter Russian assaults along the front line, given Moscow’s superiority in artillery firepower. Additional equipment was crucial for Ukraine’s defense against the attacks.
In addition, the United States is furnishing Javelin missiles, Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles, M113 Armoured Personnel Carriers, patrol boats, as well as general small arms ammunition, grenades, and demolition munitions. It is worth mentioning that this declaration follows the approval of an initial USD 1 billion package in late April, which coincided with President Biden’s signing of the national security supplemental bill. This development occurred subsequent to several months of Congress delaying discussions regarding fresh assistance for Ukraine.
The United States Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin, has additionally revealed a $6 billion aid package for Ukraine, which will necessitate Kyiv to procure equipment from the defense industrial base prior to receiving the assistance.
Russia is escalating pressure along the eastern front, gaining significant ground in Donetsk. The US assistance will be vital for Ukraine’s response. This development follows a recent Russian attack in the Kharkiv region, further straining Ukrainian forces.
On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acted by removing the head of the state guards following accusations that two members were implicated in a conspiracy to assassinate him. Zelenskyy terminated the services of the previous leader of the state guards, Serhiy Rud, stating that this decision was made in response to the State Security Service (SBU) revealing an assassination plot against Zelenskyy and other significant officials earlier this week.
