KYIV, Ukraine — The United States has announced a new $400 million defense aid package for Ukraine, marking another phase of military support amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin revealed the details on Monday during a meeting in Kyiv with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The newly allocated package includes ammunition, military equipment, and additional weaponry, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. Austin underscored that this aid falls under the ongoing security agreement between the two nations, aiming to reinforce Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
President Zelenskyy expressed his appreciation for the continued U.S. support, both from the government and the public. “I thank the American people and President Biden. I am also grateful for the bipartisan support: we greatly appreciate everything that has been done since the start of this war,” Zelenskyy stated.
During the meeting, Zelenskyy and Austin also discussed a range of issues, including Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and strategies to strengthen them in preparation for the coming winter. The leaders explored authorization for long-range weapons use, increasing the production of drones and cruise missiles, and enhancing artillery and air defense systems.
The meeting additionally addressed the possibility of convening another “Ramstein” meeting at the heads-of-state level, focusing on international coordination of security assistance to Ukraine.