President Biden Allocates Final $250 Million to Ukraine as U.S. Depletes Funding Reserves

In a critical move to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities, the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) has announced a security assistance package valued at up to $250 million. The package, comprising air defense capabilities, artillery, antitank weapons, and other essential equipment, is intended to support Ukraine in its relentless fight against Russia’s unprovoked invasion.

This marks the 54th drawdown of military equipment for Ukraine from DOD inventories since August 2021, underlining the enduring commitment of the United States to the conflict. The announcement comes amid ongoing negotiations on Capitol Hill regarding President Joe Biden’s supplemental request to Congress for continued funding in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine.

Defense officials have issued warnings that without prompt action from Congress, further U.S. assistance for Ukraine may be at risk during a crucial period, with Russia’s war approaching its two-year mark. Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder emphasized the urgency, stating, “It is imperative that we have the funds needed to ensure that they get the most urgent battlefield capabilities that they require.”

In a recent letter to lawmakers, DOD Comptroller Michael J. McCord revealed that the department plans to obligate the remaining $1 billion in funds authorized by Congress to replace U.S. inventories of weapons provided to Ukraine by the end of this month. The security assistance package announced is expected to be the last until Congress authorizes additional funds.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during his recent visit to Washington, expressed gratitude for the United States’ support and emphasized the urgent need for continued assistance. President Biden echoed this sentiment, pledging that the U.S. “will not walk away from Ukraine” and urging lawmakers to authorize additional funding.

President Biden highlighted the resilience of the Ukrainian people against Russian aggression and warned against the consequences of failing to deliver for Ukraine. “Putin is banking on the United States failing to deliver for Ukraine,” he stated. “We must prove him wrong.”

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III reaffirmed the U.S.’s “unshakable” commitment to supporting Ukraine, emphasizing its significance to global security. He noted the substantial financial contributions, with the U.S. committing over $44 billion and allies contributing over $37 billion in security assistance to Ukraine. Austin highlighted the impact of these contributions on the battlefield, assisting Ukraine in reclaiming more than half of the territory seized by Russia since February 2022.

The U.S. and its allies remain determined to assist Ukraine in consolidating and extending its gains on the battlefield, with a focus on building a future force capable of warding off Russian aggression in the years ahead. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the fate of Ukraine stands as a pivotal concern for global security in the 21st century.