The United States has declared a new military aid package for Ukraine, amounting to $250 million. This assistance, consisting of weapons and equipment, represents the final allocation of funds available for Ukraine until Congress approves additional funding as requested by the Biden administration, as announced by the U.S. State Department on December 27.
Secretary of State Anthony Blinken stated that this package includes air defense munitions, components for air defense systems, extra ammunition for high mobility artillery rocket systems, and various types of munitions and ammunition.
The aid is provided under the Presidential Drawdown Authority, which allows for the direct supply of weaponry from U.S. stockpiles.
This announcement comes amidst ongoing political debates in the U.S. regarding further financial support for Ukraine. President Joe Biden has been advocating for a supplemental aid package, which faces opposition from some lawmakers linking their support to other policy issues, including border security.
The Senate's efforts to agree on additional funding before their holiday recess were unsuccessful, with a vote expected in early 2024.
The support for any new funding agreement in the Republican-controlled House remains uncertain.
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the U.S. has provided substantial military support to Ukraine, totaling $46.2 billion.
This latest aid package underscores the U.S.'s commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict, despite the challenges in securing continued funding.
