US Provides Military Support to Ukraine to Defend Against Russian Aggression near Kharkiv
In a recent announcement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed that the United States is allocating $275 million in military aid to Ukraine as part of their strategy to assist in defending against Russia's aggression near Kharkiv. This move highlights the ongoing efforts to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities amidst escalating tensions.
The United States announced on Friday that it is providing $275 million in military assistance to Ukraine. This aid is aimed at helping Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s attack near Kharkiv, according to Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
Blinken emphasized that the assistance package includes critical resources that Ukrainian troops urgently need. These capabilities will support them in their efforts to push back against Russia's ongoing advances toward the important northeastern city.
"We will ensure the new assistance reaches the Ukrainian military promptly so they can defend their territory and protect their people," Blinken stated.
On X Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked for the new aid package, noting its importance as attacks along the frontline increase.
Today in Kharkiv, I saw how crucial it is to empower our soldiers to defend our people, cities, and communities. Both our nations cherish freedom, and to safeguard it, we need unwavering support from the United States and our allies.
Russian troops have moved closer to Kharkiv, the second-largest city in Ukraine, following a sudden attack in mid-May. Tragically, seven individuals lost their lives in a series of missile attacks by the Russian military on Thursday.
Ukrainian forces are facing challenges due to a lack of weapons as they try to defend against advancing Russian troops. CNN reporters observed troops in Lyptsi using outdated and insufficient weaponry to fend off well-equipped Russian units supported by drones.
The most recent military aid package from the US, which is the fifth one since the approval of a multi-billion dollar national security funding package, includes artillery rounds, Javelin and TOW missiles, ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), demolitions munitions, anti-armor mines, tactical vehicles, body armor, and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear protective equipment, according to Blinken.
The US Secretary of State visited Ukraine recently to show continued support for Zelensky and other Ukrainian leaders following the approval of the national security supplemental.
During a press conference with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Blinken expressed the US’ resolve for Ukraine to triumph in the war and prosper for the benefit of its people and future. He also emphasized the commitment to provide Ukraine with the necessary equipment for success on the battlefield.
The US maintains that Ukraine cannot use American weapons to attack Russian targets on Russian soil. Secretary of State Blinken reiterated last week that the US has not supported or facilitated strikes outside of Ukraine.
G7 finance ministers are currently gathering in Italy to talk about how to use Russian assets that were frozen abroad at the start of the war to support Ukraine's defense and recovery efforts. According to sources, the plan involves redirecting billions of dollars from Russian investments through US and European banks to help Ukraine financially, especially since the support from Ukraine's main allies is uncertain.
This story has been updated with more information.
CNN’s Kayla Tausche contributed to this report.
Editor's P/S:
The United States' unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia's aggression fills me with a sense of hope and solidarity. The $275 million military assistance package, tailored to Ukraine's urgent needs, is a testament to the US's commitment to Ukraine's defense and sovereignty. The aid package includes critical resources that will empower Ukrainian troops to push back against Russia's advances toward Kharkiv and protect their people.
Beyond the immediate conflict, the US's broader support for Ukraine's long-term recovery and prosperity is equally crucial. The G7 finance ministers' discussions on using frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine's defense and reconstruction efforts demonstrate the international community's determination to hold Russia accountable for its actions and support Ukraine's future. This ongoing support is essential for Ukraine to emerge from this conflict as a resilient and thriving nation.
