The US Department of Defense has disclosed the provision of an additional security assistance package valued at $988m for Ukraine under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.
The funding is aimed at equipping Ukraine with munitions for rocket systems and uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) to bolster their defence against ongoing Russian military actions.
Included in the package are resources for the upkeep and restoration of military assets, ensuring the Ukrainian forces can rebuild and maintain their combat capabilities.
The latest announcement details the inclusion of ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) as well as the equipment, components, and spare parts for artillery systems, tanks, and armoured vehicles maintenance and overhaul.
Marking the 22nd instalment of the USAI by the Biden Administration, this assistance is part of a broader initiative that has seen the US extend more than $62bn in security support to Ukraine since the escalation of the conflict in February 2022.
The ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia has led to human and material losses, with extensive financial support and military equipment being provided to Kyiv by Western allies since the conflict's intensification.
Since its invasion of Ukraine, Russia has incurred more than 700,000 casualties and lost more than $200bn in financial resources.
The US, in coordination with approximately 50 international Allies and partners within the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, remains committed to delivering aid for Ukraine's success in the conflict.
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III said: "I've convened the contact group 24 times now. Its other members have committed more than $57bn in direct security assistance to Ukraine.
"And together, we have helped Ukraine survive an all-out assault by the largest military in Europe."
Austin added: “As I said in Kyiv in October, we are seeing 'a sneak preview of a world built by tyrants and thugs — a chaotic world, violent world carved into spheres of influence; a world where bullies trample their smaller neighbours; and a world where aggressors force free people to live in fear.
“So, we can continue to stand up to the Kremlin, or we can let Putin have his way — and condemn our children and grandchildren to live in a world of chaos and conflict.”
