The United States has committed over $62 billion in aid to Ukraine since Russia's invasion began in February 2022, with a new package adding $988 million in support. This latest assistance will supply Ukraine with additional drones, rockets for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), and resources for maintenance and sustainment.
Aid Delivery Details
This package is provided through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), meaning the funds will go toward contracts to manufacture and deliver these systems over time. This differs from the more immediate process of transferring weapons from existing U.S. military stockpiles, where funds are used to replenish U.S. inventories with new weapons.
"Together, we have helped Ukraine survive an all-out assault by the largest military in Europe," U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said during remarks. Austin highlighted the efforts of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which he has convened 24 times with allies to coordinate aid.
Austin also noted the significant toll on Russia, citing at least 700,000 casualties and economic losses exceeding $200 billion since the offensive began.
Timeline and Future Considerations
This aid package is part of an effort to deliver as much military support as possible to Ukraine before the Trump administration takes office on January 20. It marks the 22nd USAI package under the Biden administration. However, a U.S. official indicated that nearly $8 billion in congressionally approved Ukraine aid may remain unused, leaving decisions about its allocation to the incoming administration.
Keynote Address
Austin delivered these remarks during the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute's event in Simi Valley, California, where he and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell received the Reagan Peace Through Strength Award.
"There is no such thing as a safe retreat from today's interwoven world," Austin said, warning against a world dominated by "tyrants and thugs" and emphasizing the importance of continued support for Ukraine. "This administration has made its choice, and so has a bipartisan coalition in Congress. The next administration must make its own choice."
From the same podium, Austin expressed confidence that President Reagan would have stood for Ukraine, American security, and human freedom.
International Diplomacy
Austin’s speech followed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's meeting in Paris with President-elect Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron. The leaders gathered ahead of the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. Foreign officials are urging Trump to maintain U.S. military aid to Ukraine once he assumes office.
