US to Provide $125 Million in New Military Aid to Ukraine, Officials State

The Biden administration is set to provide approximately $125 million in new military assistance to Ukraine, as U.S. officials confirmed Thursday. This decision comes as Washington seeks a clearer insight into Kyiv’s ongoing military actions within Russia and how they contribute to the overall strategy in the ongoing conflict lasting more than two years.

This latest aid package, according to U.S. officials, comprises air defense missiles, munitions for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), Javelins, various anti-armor missiles, and counter-drone systems. It will also include counter-electronic warfare systems, as well as 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, vehicles, and other equipment.

Due to the sensitive nature of the information, officials requested anonymity since the aid details have not yet been publicly disclosed. An official announcement is anticipated as early as Friday, coinciding with Ukraine’s Independence Day.

The assistance is being allocated through presidential drawdown authority, which allows for quicker delivery by sourcing directly from Pentagon stockpiles.

This support arrives amidst a significant expansion of Ukrainian military operations into Russia, where they have reportedly seized approximately 100 square kilometers (62 square miles) of territory around the Kursk region. In contrast, Russian forces are advancing in the east, particularly around Pokrovsk, a vital logistics center for Ukraine.

Officials at the Pentagon have explained that discussions are ongoing with Ukrainian leaders to evaluate their long-term objectives related to actions in Kursk, especially in light of Russia’s gains near Pokrovsk.

Should Pokrovsk fall, Ukraine’s defenses could be significantly compromised, bringing Russia closer to its goal of seizing the entire Donetsk region, with Russian troops now positioned just 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) away.

When asked for details regarding the Kursk operation, Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh emphasized the ongoing collaboration with Ukraine concerning how these actions align with their strategic battlefield objectives.

The U.S. recognizes Ukraine’s intent to establish a buffer zone along the border. However, Singh noted that there are still unanswered questions about how this campaign advances Ukraine’s broader military efforts.

On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the border area where his forces initiated their current offensive on August 6. During his visit, he announced that Ukrainian troops had gained control of another village previously held by Russian forces and had captured additional prisoners of war.

The newly pledged aid raises the total U.S. security assistance to Ukraine to over $55.7 billion since Russia began its invasion in February 2022.