US Announces Fresh Security Assistance for Ukraine

On Thursday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a substantial commitment of support to Ukraine, totaling $326 million. This support includes $128 million in new security assistance and $198 million worth of arms and equipment from the Department of Defense’s existing stocks, which were previously directed for drawdown.

This announcement coincided with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington, DC, where he held a meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House.

Blinken explained, “Following President Biden’s recent announcement of a new security assistance package for Ukraine, I am authorizing additional security assistance, which includes the transfer of U.S. arms and equipment valued at $128 million. Additionally, the Department of Defense will provide $198 million in arms and equipment from previously allocated resources.”

The equipment includes air defense munitions to bolster Ukraine’s capability to defend against aerial threats from Russia. It also encompasses artillery ammunition, anti-armor capabilities, and cluster munitions to enhance Ukraine’s capacity to continue its counter-offensive against Russian forces.

Blinken emphasized the strength of the partnership between the United States and Ukraine, highlighting Ukraine’s successful reclamation of over 50% of the territory seized by Russian forces since February 2022.

“We stand united with Ukraine as it secures its future—a future where its people can rebuild and live in a resilient and thriving democracy, fully integrated with Europe,” Blinken affirmed.

President Biden welcomed President Zelenskyy to the White House, reiterating the commitment of the United States to support Ukraine’s efforts to defend itself against Russia’s invasion. Biden stated that a coalition of over 50 countries has been assembled to assist Ukraine in its defense.

Biden stated, “We’re in the process of formalizing our long-term commitment to Ukraine’s security, along with our fellow G7 leaders and international partners. We support a just and lasting peace that respects Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

He commended the courage of the Ukrainian people, emphasizing their determination to defend democratic principles. Biden pledged the unwavering support of the American people in this endeavor.

During President Zelenskyy’s visit, he also met with US House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, and other House Representatives. Zelenskyy expressed profound gratitude for the bipartisan support received from the United States.

In a social media post, President Zelenskyy stated, “The Ukrainian people have suffered immensely as a result of Russian war crimes, but we have liberated more than half of the occupied territory from Russian invaders, and we can clearly see that victory is getting closer. To win, we must all stand together and work together.”

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