Biden administration's $250 million Ukraine military aid package announced amidst US funding constraints
The US State Department unveils a $250 million military aid package for Ukraine, marking the final installment until Congress approves the Biden administration's funding requests
On Wednesday, the US State Department revealed a $250 million military aid package for Ukraine. This will be the final aid package until Congress gives its approval for the funding requests from the Biden administration. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the package includes arms and equipment worth up to $250 million, such as air defense munitions, ammunition for artillery rocket systems, anti-armor munitions, and over 15 million rounds of ammunition.
The Biden administration announced that it will provide one final Ukraine security package this year, as it has reached the limit of funding available for such assistance without Congressional approval. The Defense Department's comptroller, Mike McCord, stated in a letter to Congress that once these funds are used, there will be no more available for Ukraine. The administration has sought a supplemental package worth over $60 billion for Ukraine, but negotiations are currently at a standstill as Republicans push for concessions on border security and immigration policy.
The administration has issued multiple warnings about the diminishing capacity to offer assistance to Ukraine. This has led to the Pentagon dividing its remaining funds into smaller aid packages.
"It's crucial for Congress to take swift action to support our national security objectives by aiding Ukraine in defending itself and ensuring its future," Blinken emphasized.
Earlier in the month, the US revealed security packages totaling $200 million and $175 million. While these are relatively small amounts compared to past aid packages, the US has sent over $46 billion in military aid to Ukraine since the start of Russia's invasion in February 2022.
The aid package announced on Wednesday is authorized under the Presidential Drawdown Authority, allowing for quick shipment of US stock to Ukraine. The US has already used up the other main form of assistance, the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which enables the Defense Department to purchase weapons for Kyiv from arms manufacturers.
