Biden announces new military aid for Ukraine, urges Congress to pass $33 billion package President Joe Biden holds a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Dec. 30, 2021, at his private residence in Wilmington, Del. (Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz)
This article was originally published by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and is reprinted with permission.
U.S. President Joe Biden says he has authorized a new weapons package for Ukraine to help it fight the unprovoked invasion by Russian forces.
Biden said on May 6 that the assistance consists of funds for artillery rounds and radar systems.
Biden did not specify the amount in his statement, but a U.S. official said it amounted to $150 million.
A U.S. official said the new aid includes funds for 25,000 155-mm artillery rounds, counterartillery radars, jamming equipment, field equipment, and spare parts.
Biden said his administration has now “nearly exhausted” what Congress authorized for Ukraine in March, and he urged lawmakers to quickly approve a proposed $33 billion-plus spending package that will last through the end of September.
“We are sending the weapons and equipment that Congress has authorized directly to the front lines of freedom in Ukraine,” Biden said.
“U.S. support, together with the contributions of our allies and partners, has been critical in helping Ukraine win the battle of Kyiv and hinder Putin’s war aims in Ukraine.”
