President Joe Biden has unveiled a fresh $2.5 billion military aid package for Ukraine, ramping up support as his administration moves swiftly to maximise assistance before President-elect Donald Trump assumes office later this month.
This latest tranche of aid includes $1.25 billion through presidential drawdown authority, enabling immediate transfer of weapons from U.S. military stockpiles to the front lines. An additional $1.22 billion will fund longer-term weapon contracts under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), marking the full utilisation of USAI funds approved by Congress.
“I’ve directed my administration to continue surging as much assistance to Ukraine as quickly as possible,” Biden said in a statement. “The United States will work relentlessly to strengthen Ukraine’s position in this war over the remainder of my time in office.”
Supporting Ukraine on All Fronts
The military aid announcement coincides with a $3.4 billion economic assistance package, revealed by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. The economic support will cover salaries for civilian government staff, school employees, healthcare workers, and first responders critical services that ensure Ukraine’s resilience during Russia’s ongoing invasion.
Ukraine’s power infrastructure remains under severe attack from Russian forces, with recent waves of missiles and drones targeting energy facilities. Despite these efforts, Ukrainian forces report successfully intercepting a significant number of strikes. Meanwhile, fierce fighting continues near the Russian border region of Kursk, where Moscow has deployed thousands of North Korean troops to bolster its offensive.
Weapons and Negotiations
The military aid package includes a wide array of battlefield equipment, such as ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds, anti-armor systems, air defense munitions, and counter-drone weaponry. These resources aim to strengthen Ukraine’s position as it confronts Russia’s ongoing aggression.
With Trump set to take office on 20 January, Biden’s administration is working to ensure Ukraine enters any potential negotiations with Russia in the strongest position possible. Trump has suggested pursuing a negotiated settlement between the two nations, a stance that has raised concerns among U.S. and European leaders. Many fear such an agreement could disadvantage Ukraine or result in reduced military aid under Trump’s leadership.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the U.S. has provided over $65 billion in security assistance to Kyiv. Biden’s latest effort underscores his commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty until his final days in office.
