The US Department of Defense has announced an additional security assistance package for Ukraine, valued at up to $175 million. This aid is aimed at helping Ukraine counter the unprovoked Russian advances into the country. The package includes extra air defense equipment, artillery rounds, and anti-tank weapons. This marks the 46th instance of equipment being provided to Ukraine from DOD inventories since August 2021, highlighting America’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.
On September 6, 2023, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken traveled to Kyiv, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. During this visit, Blinken reiterated the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine. He stated that the US is dedicated to ensuring that Ukraine not only has the necessary resources to succeed in its current counteroffensive efforts but also possesses the long-term capabilities for a robust defense. This is intended to serve as a strong deterrent against future aggressions like the one currently being experienced. This latest assistance package is being provided as part of the $6.2 billion in presidential drawdown authority, which was reinstated in June following a reevaluation of the total value of items already supplied to Ukraine.
Funds sent to Ukraine BY the US After the start of the war
As of the end of last month, there remained approximately $5.75 billion in restored funding designated for Ukraine. Since the start of Russia’s invasion in February 2022, the Biden administration has committed over $43 billion in security assistance to Ukraine. This assistance package includes more than 2000 Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, over 1000 Javelin anti-armor systems, and more than 2 million 155 mm artillery rounds, among various other items.
This support has been provided through two channels: drawdowns of existing US stocks and the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which allows the US to procure capabilities from industry and partners. The Biden administration has pledged to continue supporting Ukraine for as long as necessary to counter Russian aggression. The US remains an active participant in international coalitions that have rallied in support of Ukrainian forces. Pentagon officials are committed to both supporting Ukraine and ensuring the readiness of US forces.
William A La Plante, the undersecretary for defense for acquisition and sustainment, emphasized that DOD leaders closely monitor the readiness of US forces as support for Ukraine continues. When deciding to provide items from US stocks to Ukraine, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Secretary of Defense carefully assess the impact on readiness. If there is any negative effect on readiness, the decision to proceed is not taken. Additionally, the US has increased production of key artillery rounds, primarily used by Ukraine in defending its territory against invading Russian forces.
