The United States has announced a significant new package of military assistance for Ukraine as the country marks thirty-three years of independence. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken revealed the aid on August 23, 2024, emphasizing its urgency in helping Ukraine defend against ongoing Russian attacks.
"This additional assistance, provided under a drawdown from Department of Defense stocks, includes: counter-unmanned aerial systems equipment and munitions, additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds, Javelin and AT-4 anti-armor missiles, Tube-Launched, Optically-Tracked, Wire-Guided (TOW) missiles, small arms ammunition, ambulances, demolition equipment and munitions, and spare parts, medical equipment, ancillary equipment, services, training, and transportation," stated Blinken.
Blinken underscored that this announcement demonstrates the United States' enduring commitment to Ukraine's self-defense against Russia's aggression. "We will deploy this new assistance as quickly as possible to bolster Ukraine’s defense of its territory and its people," he said. He also reiterated President Biden's stance that the United States and its international coalition will continue to support Ukraine.
