US President Joe Biden announced nearly $3 billion in military aid to Kyiv on Wednesday, the biggest US package so far to mark Ukraine's Independence Day, six months after Russia invaded the country.
The package aims to fortify Ukraine's military over the coming two years by committing the production and delivery of more advanced surface-to-air missiles, artillery ammunition, laser-guided rockets and advanced drones, reports BSS.
In a statement, Biden signaled the firmness of Washington's commitment to Kyiv 's struggle, saying the funds aimed "to ensure it can continue to defend itself over the long term."
Congratulating Ukraine on its independence, which was declared from the Soviet Union in 1991, Biden said the United States "is committed to supporting the people of Ukraine as they continue the fight to defend their sovereignty."
"Today is not only a celebration of the past, but a resounding affirmation that Ukraine proudly remains -- and will remain a sovereign and independent nation."
The White House said Biden planned to call Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday to congratulate him and update him on US security assistance.
The Pentagon said the billions of dollars for arms constituted a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that US and allied support for Ukraine would not disappear.
"The United States has now committed more than $13.5 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the beginning of the Biden administration," said Defense Under Secretary Colin Kahl.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
