President Joe Biden announced Monday that the United States will send an additional $2.5 billion in military aid to Ukraine. The package includes $1.25 billion under presidential drawdown authority, allowing immediate transfer of existing stockpiles, and $1.22 billion in longer-term contracts under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI).
Effort to exhaust available funds before Trump takes office
Biden emphasized the urgency of providing aid before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20. The president stated, “I’ve directed my administration to continue surging as much assistance to Ukraine as quickly as possible.”
Economic support also included
In addition to military aid, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen announced $3.4 billion in economic assistance for Ukraine. This funding aims to support critical government services, including salaries for public sector employees, healthcare workers, and first responders.
Weapons and systems included in the package
The weapons package includes counter-unmanned aerial systems munitions, air defense systems, HIMARS ammunition, artillery rounds, anti-armor systems, and spare parts. The Biden administration has provided over $65 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the Russian invasion began in February 2022.
Concerns over Trump’s potential approach to Ukraine
The Biden administration’s push to strengthen Ukraine’s position comes amid concerns that President-elect Trump may pursue a negotiated settlement with Russia. European and U.S. leaders worry that such a settlement could compromise Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty and result in reduced weapons funding.
Renewed fighting intensifies urgency
Russia’s recent attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure and the ongoing battle near Kursk, involving Russian forces and North Korean troops, have further heightened the urgency for U.S. aid. Biden reiterated the need to bolster Ukraine’s position, saying the assistance will help strengthen Kyiv’s standing in potential negotiations.
