The Defense Department recently announced a security assistance package for Ukraine, totaling up to $200 million in equipment from DOD inventories and approximately $1.5 billion in assistance under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. This package includes air defense interceptors, munitions for rocket and artillery systems, and antitank weapons. It also includes funding to sustain equipment previously provided by the U.S. This marks the 62nd drawdown of military equipment for Ukraine and the 20th tranche authorized under the USAI, with a total of more than $55.4 billion in security assistance provided to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has reiterated the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine and has led an international coalition of allies committed to Ukraine’s immediate and long-term security. During a meeting with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Austin emphasized that Ukraine is not alone and that the U.S. will continue to provide critical capabilities to push back Russian aggression. NATO allies also expressed their commitment to Ukraine’s success at the NATO Summit, advancing initiatives to strengthen the alliance and support Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression, as well as its path to NATO membership.
At the NATO Summit, member states established the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine initiative, which will coordinate equipment, training, and force development for Ukraine as it moves towards full interoperability with NATO. President Joe Biden announced that more than 20 countries, along with the European Council and European Union, endorsed the Ukraine Compact, reaffirming their commitment to Ukraine’s long-term defense and security. Biden emphasized the significance of Ukraine’s situation, stating that it matters to all of Europe, NATO, and the world, and that the international community is united against Putin’s war and in support of Ukraine’s fight for freedom and future.
Overall, the U.S. and its allies are standing together to provide significant security assistance to Ukraine in response to Russia’s invasion. The assistance package includes equipment, funding, and training to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities and deter Russian aggression. The commitment to Ukraine’s security and success is evident through the ongoing support from the U.S., NATO allies, and other international partners. By working together, these countries are sending a strong message of solidarity with Ukraine and a united front against Russian aggression.
