The United States has pledged to send $2 billion in long-term security assistance to Ukraine, marking the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of the country. The announcement comes just
days after President Joe Biden's visit to Kyiv, where he expressed America's continued commitment to Ukraine's safety and security.
In a statement on Friday, the Pentagon said the aid package will include weapons to counter Russia's unmanned systems and several types of drones, including the upgraded Switchblade 600 Kamikaze drone, as well as electronic warfare detection equipment. It will also include money for additional ammunition for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, artillery rounds, and munitions for laser-guided rocket systems.
This latest package brings the total amount of U.S. security assistance to Ukraine since Russia's invasion to over $32 billion. However, in an unusual move, the Pentagon did not provide details on how many rounds of ammunition or weapons will be bought.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated in a release that the first anniversary of Russia's invasion is an opportunity for all who believe in freedom "to recommit ourselves to supporting Ukraine's brave defenders for the long haul—and to recall that the stakes of Russia's war stretch far beyond Ukraine."
The commitment to aid Ukraine's defense comes amid heightened tensions between Ukraine and Russia. The Russian government has amassed troops near Ukraine's border, leading to concerns of a potential new invasion. The U.S. and NATO have expressed their support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and have called on Russia to de-escalate tensions.
The new aid package demonstrates the U.S.'s continued commitment to Ukraine's defense and sends a clear message to Russia that the international community will not stand by while they continue to violate Ukraine's sovereignty. Photo by Mariordo Camila Ferreira & Mario Duran, Wikimedia commons.