US Announces Ukraine An Extra $600 Million In Military Aid

The United States has announced an extra defence package worth USD 600 million for Ukraine. On February 24, Russian forces began combat operations in Ukraine, three days after Moscow recognised Ukraine’s separatist regions – Donetsk and Luhansk – as separate entities.

The United States will provide Ukraine with an additional USD 600 million in military support, the State Department announced on Friday (local time).

According to US State Secretary Antony Blinken, “Since September 2021, I am ordering our twenty-first drawdown of US arms and equipment for Ukraine. Additional armaments, munitions, and equipment from US Department of Defense inventory are included in this USD 600 million drawdown.”

“With this reduction, the overall amount of US military support to Ukraine since the start of this Administration will be around USD 15.8 billion.”

He added that the US is sending the guns and equipment that Ukraine’s military are using so effectively as they continue their victorious counter-offensive against Russia’s invasion, in collaboration with allies and partners.

According to Blinken, President Joe Biden has stated unequivocally that the US will back the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes.

“Ukraine’s people are protecting their territory and fighting for their future with great tenacity and commitment. To help Ukraine’s defence, the United States is sending military aid alongside our allies and partners from more than 50 countries.

The assets we are sending have been carefully calibrated to make the most difference on the battlefield and to bolster Ukraine’s bargaining position when the time comes “He continued.

Blinken reaffirmed that the US and its partners are united in their support for Ukraine.
On February 24, Russian forces began combat operations in Ukraine, three days after Moscow recognised Ukraine’s separatist regions – Donetsk and Luhansk – as separate entities.

Several countries, notably the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and the European Union, have criticised Russia’s military operations in Ukraine and sanctioned Moscow. These countries have also offered to provide military assistance to Ukraine in its struggle against Russia.