On Monday (Washington time), U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a new military aid package worth $725 million to support Ukraine in its ongoing defense against Russia's invasion. The package, which is part of a broader surge of security assistance pledged by President Biden on September 26, includes a wide range of urgently needed weapons and equipment to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.
The new assistance, authorized under Presidential Drawdown Authority from U.S. Department of Defense stocks, includes a variety of advanced weaponry and munitions. Notable items in the package are Stinger missiles, counter-unmanned aerial systems (c-UAS) munitions, and ammunition for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), which have been critical in Ukraine's ability to strike Russian positions. The package also includes artillery ammunition (155mm and 105mm), Javelin and AT-4 anti-armor systems, and TOW (Tube-launched, Optically Guided, Wire-tracked) missiles, enhancing Ukraine's ability to neutralize armored Russian forces.
Additionally, the U.S. will provide Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), non-persistent antipersonnel landmines, small arms, demolitions equipment, and spare parts. The package also includes training, transportation, and services necessary to maintain and deploy the equipment. As part of this commitment, the U.S. will deliver vital equipment to protect Ukraine's critical infrastructure, ensuring the country’s resilience in the face of continued Russian attacks.
In his statement, Blinken reiterated that the United States, along with more than 50 allied nations, remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. “We stand united with Ukraine to ensure it has the capabilities it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression,” Blinken said, highlighting the continued international commitment to Ukraine’s defense as the war enters a challenging phase.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan