Biden sends $1.2B to Ukraine, total military aid at $37.6B.

Biden Administration Sends $1.2 Billion Military Aid Package to Ukraine

U.S. Continues to Support Ukraine’s Defense Against Russian Aggression

The Biden administration has announced a military aid package worth up to $1.2 billion for Ukraine. The package includes air defense systems and artillery ammunition to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities. The United States has committed to meeting Ukraine’s most urgent requirements and building the capacity of its armed forces to defend its territory and deter Russian aggression.

The equipment will be purchased new from defense contractors under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which allows the United States to procure capabilities from industry or partners. The USAI was created in response to Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea.

Unprecedented Aid to Ukraine from the United States

The total value of the aid to Ukraine from the United States now exceeds $37.6 billion, with more than $36.9 billion sent since the start of Russia’s invasion in February 2022. The latest aid package includes additional 155 mm artillery rounds, air defense systems, and munitions. It also includes equipment to integrate Western air defense launchers, missiles, and radars with Ukraine’s air defense systems, as well as ammunition for counter-unmanned aerial systems.

Preparing for a Spring Offensive Against Russian Forces

The latest aid comes as Ukraine prepares to launch a spring offensive against Russian forces, with air defense a persistent issue. The package commits additional 155 mm artillery rounds, one of the most requested artillery rounds in Ukraine’s fight against Russia. The rounds allow Ukrainian soldiers to hit Russian targets up to 15 to 20 miles away, depending on what type of round and firing system is used.

Supporting Ukraine’s Medium and Long Term Security Assistance Needs

The USAI gives the United States the ability to leverage the power and capabilities of the private sector to support Ukraine’s medium and long term security assistance needs. The latest aid package underscores the continued U.S. commitment to Ukraine’s defense and its most urgent requirements. The United States remains committed to building the capacity of Ukraine’s armed forces to defend its territory and deter Russian aggression over the long term.