May 31, 2023 | By Joseph Clark
The Defense Department has revealed a significant security assistance package for Ukraine, aimed at bolstering the country's defenses against Russian airstrikes targeting critical infrastructure. Valued at up to $300 million, this latest package marks the 39th drawdown of DOD equipment for Ukraine since August 2021.
The announcement comes in response to Russia's recent drone attacks on Ukraine's civilian infrastructure, even far from the front lines. "Russia has continued to wage a brutal, completely unprovoked war against Ukraine, launching yet more airstrikes and bombarding Ukrainian cities across the country," stated National Security Council spokesman John F. Kirby during a briefing at the White House.
Russian aggression has included 17 separate air assaults on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, in May alone, causing harm to civilians and critical civilian infrastructure. In light of these attacks, the United States is committed to providing Ukraine with the necessary support to enhance its defense capabilities.
The security assistance package includes additional munitions for Patriot air defense systems, Avenger air defense systems, Stinger antiaircraft systems, and AIM-7 missiles for air defense. Moreover, it encompasses more artillery and antiarmor capabilities, as well as precision aerial munitions and other essential items.
Since Russia's invasion in February 2022, the Biden administration has committed over $37.6 billion in security assistance to Ukraine. This highlights the unwavering support of the United States and its allies in aiding Ukraine's defense.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III emphasized the urgent need to help Ukraine safeguard its skies during the recent meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. Ground-based air defense was identified as one of Ukraine's top priorities. Austin stated, "In recent weeks, Russia has intensified its sordid bombardment of Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. And the Kremlin's cruelty only underscores Ukraine's need for a stronger, layered ground-based air defense architecture."
Under the U.S. leadership, the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which consists of over 50 countries dedicated to Ukraine's defense, has convened 12 meetings since the Russian invasion. Austin reiterated the United States' unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine, expressing that the contact group is determined to do even more in aiding Ukraine's fight for freedom.
As tensions persist in the region, the security assistance package underscores the United States' commitment to Ukraine's security and its firm stance against Russian aggression.
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