-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Ivan Khomenko")
The United States is set to provide Ukraine with a new $1.25 billion military aid package, which will include air defense systems, ammunition, and artillery shells. The announcement was made on Friday, December 27, by White House representative John Kirby during a press briefing.
Kirby emphasized that the US remains firmly committed to strengthening Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. He referenced the recent mass missile strikes on Ukrainian regions during the Christmas period, underlining the necessity of bolstering Ukraine’s ability to counter such attacks.
“No doubt this was all about weaponizing winter and weaponizing energy, making it harder for the Ukrainian people to get the heat that they need simply to subsist. That’s why we’re going to stay absolutely committed to making sure that we are bolstering Ukrainian air defense capabilities,” Kirby stated.
The package, expected to be officially announced on Monday, December 30, will include air defense systems designed to support Ukraine’s operations both in defending against missile attacks and in ongoing combat operations in regions such as Kursk and the eastern frontlines.
According to Associated Press, the aid will feature significant quantities of ammunition for air defense systems, including HAWK missiles, Stinger missiles, and artillery shells of 155 mm and 105 mm caliber.
The timing of the package is part of an effort by the Biden administration to deliver critical support to Ukraine before the current US.administration’s term concludes on January 20.
Earlier, the United States and the World Bank allocated $485 million to Ukraine under the PEACE in Ukraine project, including $465 million from USAID and $20 million from the World Bank, to support social and humanitarian expenses in the state budget, according to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.
