7 Main Points From the Blinken–Kuleba Briefing on US Support for Ukraine

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken made several important announcements during his visit to Kyiv, including an additional $2 billion as a contribution to the newly created Defense Enterprise Fund and Ukraine’s right to decide whether to strike Russian territories.

During a briefing, on his second day in Kyiv, May 15, with Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba, Anthony Blinken covered the following points:

$2 Billion Increase in Military Aid

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a significant increase in military aid to Ukraine, totaling an additional $2 billion. This aid aims to support Ukraine’s defense capabilities and bolster its industrial sector. Blinken emphasized the importance of this assistance in strengthening Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against external threats.

Establishment of Defense Enterprise Fund

Blinken highlighted the establishment of a pioneering Defense Enterprise Fund within this aid package. This fund will serve as a critical mechanism to support Ukraine’s defense enterprises and facilitate the procurement of weaponry. It will provide resources to invest in Ukraine’s military-industrial complex, fostering the production of essential defense equipment domestically.

Delivery of Patriots

Additionally, during the briefing, Blinken underscored the importance of delivering air defense equipment, particularly Patriots, to Ukraine. Recognizing the urgent need to enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, Blinken identified Kharkiv as a priority for obtaining the Patriot air defense system. He reiterated the US’s commitment to expediting the delivery of critical defense equipment to Ukraine to address immediate security concerns.

Ukraine’s Strikes on Russian Territory

Addressing the question of Ukraine’s use of weapons against Russia, Blinken emphasized Ukraine’s autonomy in decision-making regarding its defense strategies. While the US does not encourage offensive actions on Russian territory, Blinken affirmed that Ukraine has the sovereign right to determine its course of action. He reiterated the US commitment to providing Ukraine with the necessary means to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity: “We will provide Ukraine with all the necessary means to achieve victory.”

Bilateral Security Agreement

Moreover, Blinken mentioned the possibility of a bilateral security agreement between the US and Ukraine, indicating progress in negotiations. This agreement would deepen cooperation between the two nations on defense and security matters, further solidifying their partnership in the face of shared security challenges.

Peace Talks with Russia

Blinken reiterated the US’s stance on Ukraine’s peace negotiations with Russia, emphasizing Ukraine’s sovereignty in decision-making. He expressed Washington’s commitment to supporting Kyiv in efforts like Ukraine’s Peace Formula and urged Russia to engage constructively in finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Meeting Between Zelenskyy and Biden

Blinken anticipates a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Joe Biden in the coming weeks. Blinken emphasized the potential significance of this meeting, highlighting expectations for fruitful discussions and diplomatic collaboration between the two leaders. Specifically, he mentioned the intention to finalize a bilateral security agreement, indicating that negotiations are nearing completion.