The United States is set to provide a new $2.3 billion security assistance package for Ukraine, which will include essential air defense and anti-tank weapons, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced on Tuesday.
During a meeting with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Secretary Austin stated, “The United States will soon announce more than $2.3 billion in new security assistance for Ukraine.” He outlined that the package will deliver additional air defense interceptors, anti-tank weapons, and other crucial munitions, drawn from U.S. military stocks.
This assistance will also enable the procurement of more Patriot and NASAMS air defense interceptors, which are to be provided on an accelerated schedule to bolster Ukraine’s air defense.
Minister Umerov expressed gratitude for the U.S. support, saying, “With that support, we will stop Russia and stop the aggression.” The Ukrainian defense forces have faced significant challenges as they try to hold off Russian troops, who frequently report territorial gains in the region.
The United States has been a crucial military ally to Ukraine since the onset of the conflict with Russia in February 2022. To date, the U.S. has committed more than $51 billion in weapons, ammunition, and other forms of security assistance to Ukraine. This ongoing support underscores the U.S.’s commitment to aiding Ukraine in its defense against the Russian military.
The announcement of the new security assistance package comes amid a critical period in the conflict, with Ukrainian forces described as weakened and facing a well-armed adversary. The provision of additional air defense systems and munitions is seen as vital for Ukraine to maintain its defense lines.
