President Biden announces $2.5 billion aid package for Ukraine

(CLO) US President Joe Biden has just announced an additional $2.5 billion military aid package for Ukraine, aiming to strengthen Kiev in the final weeks before President-elect Donald Trump takes office.

“Under my direction, the United States will continue to work tirelessly to strengthen Ukraine’s position in this fight for the remainder of my term,” President Biden said in a statement.

US President Joe Biden. Photo: WH

The new aid package includes: $1.25 billion from the US military reserve; $1.22 billion from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which is also the last USAI package of Mr. Biden's term.

Unlike aid from the stockpile, USAI procures military equipment from defense contractors or international partners, which means it can take months or even years for equipment to reach the battlefield.

The aid package provides Ukraine with important weapons systems such as air defense, artillery, and other modern combat equipment. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov expressed his gratitude on social media: “The United States is an important ally of Ukraine, providing invaluable support. Together, we will win.”

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has lasted nearly three years. The United States has pledged a total of $175 billion in aid to Ukraine so far. But the future of that support remains unclear as Trump, who takes office on January 20, has criticized the extent of America’s involvement in the war, saying European allies should shoulder more of the financial burden.

Some Republicans, who will control both the House and Senate from next month, have also expressed skepticism about continuing aid to Ukraine.

In the coming time, the US Department of Defense plans to transfer hundreds of thousands of artillery shells, thousands of missiles, and hundreds of armored vehicles to support Ukraine in dealing with winter challenges.

Cao Phong (according to Time, Thehill, Whitehouse)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/tong-thong-biden-tiep-tuc-cong-bo-goi-vien-tro-quan-su-moi-25-ty-usd-cho-ukraine-post328298.html