U.S. Approves $400M Military Aid, Including Patriot Missiles, for Ukraine

The United States announced on Friday a new $400 million military aid package, featuring advanced weaponry such as Patriot missiles, to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

The aid package, which includes an array of sophisticated weaponry long sought by Ukraine, comprises Patriot missile system munitions, High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) units and ammunition, Stinger anti-air missiles, 155mm artillery rounds, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles (MRAPs), and other critical supplies.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the commitment of the United States to stand with Ukraine in its defense of freedom. This aid announcement follows President Joe Biden's enactment of a $60 billion national security supplemental, enabling the second Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) package.

This recent aid allocation is part of a broader strategy to bolster Ukraine's defenses. Last month, the U.S. unveiled a $1 billion PDA package immediately after the legislation was signed. Additionally, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin unveiled a $6 billion long-term investment package aimed at acquiring new equipment for Ukraine under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI).

While PDAs enable rapid deployment from existing U.S. stocks, the USAI entails contracting with the U.S. defense industry for new equipment. The State Department also announced a separate $30 million sale of HIMARS to Ukraine, an acquisition supported by Germany on Ukraine's behalf.

The timing of this aid announcement coincides with increased tensions on the ground. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia had initiated a new wave of counteroffensive actions in northern Kharkiv region. However, Ukrainian forces repelled the assault using artillery fire.