US commits an additional $300 million in security aid to Ukraine

“This decision demonstrates the US’ unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in support of its heroic efforts to repel Russia’s war of choice,” Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said in a statement.

The US Defense Department announced on Friday that it is allocating $300 million in “security assistance” for Ukraine to bolster the country’s defence capabilities, adding to the $1.6 billion Washington has committed since Russia invaded in late February.

The package is also said to include laser-guided rocket systems, drones, ammunition, night-vision devices, tactical secure communications systems, medical supplies, and spare parts.

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“This decision demonstrates the US’ unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in support of its heroic efforts to repel Russia’s war of choice,” Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said in a statement.

This decision follows a call between US President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in which they discussed “additional capabilities” to assist the Ukrainian military, according to a statement issued by the White House following the call.

Meanwhile, Congress passed a funding bill in mid-March that included $13.6 billion for humanitarian and military aid to Ukraine and NATO allies in Eastern Europe. Following that, Biden announced $1 billion in new security assistance to Ukraine.

It is worth noting that the majority of the military equipment provided to Ukraine by the US came from its own stockpile, as part of a process known as a “presidential drawdown.”

In contrast to that procedure, the $300 million announced on Friday will go toward new contracts for military equipment from the Pentagon’s defence industry partners. More Switchblade tactical drones are among the technologies announced in the announcement.