The USA unveils an enormous $8 billion military aid plan for Ukraine.
The current U.S. President, Biden, has the green light to utilize billions of dollars until his term ends, to back Ukraine. This backing includes acquiring another Patriot air defense system, various types of ammunition, and additional F-16 jet pilot training sessions.
United States will bolster Ukraine's defensive weapons arsenal leading its fight against Russian aggression. Biden declared this emergency aid package with a boost in security assistance for Ukraine, accompanied by additional strategies to help Ukraine emerge victorious.
These funds, totaling $5.5 billion under 'Presidential Drawdown Authority', do not require congressional approval. Apart from this, the Defense Department also unveiled a $2.4 billion security aid package.
Biden announced an expansion in the training of F-16 jet pilots, with 18 more individuals set to be trained by next year. A few international partners have pledged to provide Ukraine with 79 F-16 jets. However, Ukraine is currently grappling with a lack of manpower to conduct such extensive training, which can cost a pretty penny and take over a year. According to reports, at least six to ten F-16 jets are already in use in Ukraine, with one being shot down earlier.
Patriot Air Defense System
Washington's promise of another Patriot system and additional missiles could potentially shield Ukraine effectively. Two U.S. units and three German units are already in operation in the nation under attack by Russia, with further assistance from Netherlands and Romania. Yet, as per Kiev, an estimated 25 Patriot systems might be required to ensure complete aerial defense.
Biden also announced the delivery of JSOW munitions that can target land objectives from F-16 jets, at a range of approximately 100 kilometers. Moreover, AMRAAM missiles, designed to intercept incoming missiles, are scheduled for delivery in 2025.
New Sanctions on Russia
Biden spoke out against Russian sanctions bypassing and money laundering, stating that the Justice Department, Treasury Department, and U.S. intelligence community, alongside foreign partners, have taken steps to dismantle a global cryptocurrency network. "The United States will maintain imposing penalties on Russia due to its involvement in the Ukraine conflict, and restrict resources for the Russian defense sector."
Biden also revealed plans for a high-level meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Germany next month, to consolidate support from over 50 countries backing Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. "With this assistance, I aim to convey a clear message: the United States will provide Ukraine with the necessary aid to clinch this war."
Gratitude from Zelensky
Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed gratitude towards Biden for the assistance. He likewise addressed the Republicans, who have recently shown tension with Ukraine, expressing concerns over possible halt in weapons deliveries if Donald Trump is re-elected.
"We will utilize this aid efficiently and transparently, focusing on our shared goal: Ukraine's victory, a just peace, and the preservation of transatlantic security," Zelensky concluded.
The U.S. military will provide further support to Ukraine's defense, possibly including another Patriot air defense system, as Biden continues to approve funding for Ukraine's defense.
The increased military aid from the U.S., including potential acquisition of a Patriot air defense system, aims to bolster Ukraine's ability to defend against Russian aggression.
