The United States initiated the delivery of vital arms and ammunition to Ukraine on Wednesday, aiming to bolster its defence against the ongoing Russian invasion. President Joe Biden accused countries like China, Iran, and North Korea of aiding Moscow in the conflict.
Biden signed a National Security Supplemental aid package worth USD 95.3 billion to support Ukraine, and Israel, and enhance security in the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan.
Highlighting Russia’s intensified airstrikes on Ukrainian cities, Biden emphasised America’s commitment to providing necessary supplies to support Ukraine’s defence efforts.
As per PTI reports, the U.S. commenced shipping and airlifting equipment, including air-defence munitions, artillery, rocket systems, and armoured vehicles to Ukraine. Biden underscored that this aid package is not only an investment in Ukraine’s security but also in Europe’s and America’s security.
Secretary of State Tony Blinken announced a new package, “which is valued at up to USD 1 billion, includes urgently-needed capabilities, including air defence missiles, munitions for HIMARS, artillery rounds, armoured vehicles, precision aerial munitions, anti-armour weapons, and small arms, equipment and spare parts to help Ukraine defend its territory and protect its people.”
The Pentagon announced that the package will bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities by delivering munitions, weapons, and equipment to fortify its frontlines, safeguard its cities, and counter Russia’s ongoing assaults.
With bipartisan backing from Congress, the U.S. pledges steadfast leadership alongside 50 allies and partners to ensure Ukraine receives vital security assistance to combat Russian aggression. President Biden cautioned that if Putin prevails in Ukraine, Russian forces could potentially target a NATO ally in their next move.
Expressing gratitude to the United States, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, “The moment when we waited for this six-month decision, 61 billion hopes. So I am thankful to the people of America, what I wanted to say. I am thankful, not the first time. And I hope that you and the Americans will feel the result of their help, a resolve to save Ukraine and Ukrainians.”
(With PTI inputs)