The United States announced a new $2.3 billion security assistance package for Ukraine, including air defense and anti-tank weapons, in response to the conflict with Russia. The US has committed over $51 billion in aid since the invasion began in February 2022. This support aims to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression.
The aid package will include air defense interceptors, anti-tank weapons, and critical munitions from US stocks. The US will also procure more Patriot and NASAMS air defense interceptors on an accelerated timeline. Washington and Kyiv have signed a 10-year bilateral security agreement, hinting at a future bridge to NATO membership for Ukraine.
President Zelensky expressed frustration at delays in receiving aid while Russia made gains on the battlefield. The US had previously announced limited aid until Congress approved $95 billion, including $61 billion for Ukraine. With NATO’s 75th-anniversary summit approaching, the US Defense Secretary pledged to discuss additional ways to meet Ukraine’s security needs and deter further Russian aggression.
Ukraine hopes to become a member of NATO, but membership is contentious, with the US stating it is impossible until the conflict concludes. NATO has recently added Finland and Sweden as members but faces challenges in extending membership to Ukraine amid the ongoing war with Russia.
