The United States will send $725 million in military assistance to Ukraine, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Monday.
This move comes as President Joe Biden’s administration aims to support Kyiv in its ongoing war against Russian forces before leaving office in January.
The aid package includes Stinger missiles, ammunition for HIMARS rocket systems, drones, and anti-personnel mines.
Blinken emphasized that this support reflects America’s commitment to ensuring Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
This latest announcement marks a significant increase in military aid, surpassing recent Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) packages, which have typically ranged from $125 million to $250 million.
With an estimated $4 billion to $5 billion in PDA funds remaining, the Biden administration plans to provide further aid before the transition to President-elect Donald Trump in January.
As Russian forces continue their push into eastern Ukraine, capturing villages and targeting the Ukrainian energy grid, the U.S. remains steadfast in its support.
“The United States and more than 50 nations stand united to ensure Ukraine has the capabilities it needs,” Blinken stated.
The inclusion of land mines in the package marks the first time in decades that the U.S. has exported such weapons.
Despite being controversial, these “non-persistent” mines are designed to deactivate quickly, reducing the risk to civilians.
Looking ahead, the incoming Trump administration may shift U.S. strategy on Ukraine, as the former president has criticized Biden’s support for Kyiv.
Trump’s special envoy for the conflict, retired General Keith Kellogg, has proposed freezing battle lines and pushing both sides to negotiate.