The Biden Administration has announced an additional $500 million in military aid to Ukraine, a move intended to show its commitment to the country’s security before the new Trump administration takes office. The aid package, which was revealed during a meeting between Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, includes missiles for fighter jets, support equipment for F-16s, armored bridging systems, small arms and ammunition, and other spare parts and communications equipment.
This latest package is funded by the presidential drawdown authority (PDA), which allows for the transfer of equipment from US stockpiles, expediting the delivery to Ukraine. This marks the 74th tranche of equipment provided by the US Defense Department for Ukraine since August 2021, with around $3.85 billion remaining in funding to provide future arms shipments.
In his address, Austin emphasized the importance of maintaining US support for Ukraine, warning that if Ukraine were to fall, Russia would likely seek to expand its aggression. Zelenskyy also appealed for continued US support, emphasizing that Ukraine’s defensive war against Russian invaders has been successful thus far and that further support is needed to maintain stability.
The package is seen as a strong gesture of commitment to Ukraine’s security, coming ahead of the inauguration of President-elect Trump, who has not explicitly stated his views on US-Ukraine relations or the war. The total estimated value of US aid to Ukraine since 2022 has been around $66 billion, with around 80-90% of the aid already delivered.
The package includes:
* Missiles for fighter jets
* Support equipment for F-16s
* Armored bridging systems
* Small arms and ammunition
* Other spare parts and communications equipment
