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The US Defense Department announced on Friday that it will provide $300 million in “security assistance” to Ukraine in order to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities, adding to the $1.6 billion Washington has committed since Russia’s invasion in late February. Laser-guided thruster systems, drones, ammunition, night-vision devices, tactical secure telecommunications networks, medical supplies, and spare parts are all included in the package. “This decision demonstrates the US’ unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s political sovereignty integrity in support of its valiant efforts to repel Russia’s war of choice,” Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said in a statement.
The White House said in a statement following the call that US President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed “additional capabilities” to assist the Ukrainian military.
Congress passed a funding bill in mid-March that included $13.6 billion for philanthropic and military aid to Ukraine and Allied countries in Eastern Europe.
Following that, Biden announced $1 billion in new cash grants to Ukraine.
A large portion of the military equipment provided to Ukraine by the US came from its own stockpile, a process known as a “presidential drawdown.”
Unlike that process, the $300 million declared Friday will go toward new military equipment contracts with the Pentagon’s defence industry partners.
More Switchblade strategic drones are among the technologies mentioned in the announcement.
Switchblades, also known as “kamikaze drones,” can be directed by a controller to find and, when ready, plunge onto a goal, exploding on contact.
Kirby went on to say that the “United States also continues to work with its allies and partners to recognise and provide additional capabilities to Ukrainians.”
