The Biden-Harris government will send approximately $125 million in new military assistance to Ukraine, according to U.S. officials. This move comes as Washington seeks a clearer understanding of Kiev’s recent escalation of the conflict with operations now being conducted within Russian territory.
The latest military aid package includes air defense missiles, munitions for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), Javelins, a variety of other anti-armor missiles, counter-drone and counter-electronic warfare systems, 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, vehicles, and assorted equipment. Biden and Kamala Harris are providing the equipment through presidential drawdown authority. The aid is being supplied amid ongoing Ukrainian efforts to extend their surprising offensive into Russia.
U.S. taxpayers—through the actions of the Biden-Harris government– have likely spent over $200 billion on aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded the Eastern European country in late February 2022. Former President Donald J. Trump has promised to end the conflict swiftly should he retake the White House in November’s U.S. presidential election.
It is believed that the Democratic Party’s nominee, Kamala Harris, will continue Biden’s policies toward Ukraine, providing billions of dollars more in aid. However, Harris has not released detailed policy proposals for top-election issues, including Ukraine aid.
Ukrainian forces have reportedly secured approximately 100 square kilometers (62 square miles) of territory around Kursk. Concurrently, Russian troops are making advances in eastern Ukraine near Pokrovsk, a crucial logistic center. Should Pokrovsk fall, Ukraine‘s defenses would be significantly compromised, moving Russia closer to its goal of capturing the Donetsk region. Reports indicate Russian forces are now about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the city.
The Biden-Harris government says it recognizes Ukraine‘s intention to create a border buffer zone, but further clarity is needed on how this fits into the overall war strategy.