The United States has unveiled a $988 million military assistance package for Ukraine, just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump takes office, raising concerns over the future of US support for Kyiv.
The Pentagon announced on Saturday that the package includes drones, ammunition for HIMARS rocket systems, and equipment for tanks and artillery. This aid is part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, meaning the supplies will be procured rather than drawn directly from American military stocks, delaying their arrival on the battlefield.
The announcement follows a $725 million package earlier in the week, as the outgoing Biden administration races to bolster Ukraine’s defenses. President Joe Biden’s team aims to maximize support before Trump, who has expressed skepticism about US aid for Ukraine, is sworn in.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan emphasized the importance of putting Ukraine in a strong position both on the battlefield and at future negotiations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Trump in Paris on Saturday, reiterating the need for “just” terms in any resolution with Russia, including strong security guarantees for Ukraine. The meeting comes as Kyiv fears potential concessions to Moscow under the Trump administration.
At the Reagan National Defense Forum in California, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stressed the global consequences of abandoning Ukraine. Austin warned, adding that America’s strength relies on its allies. “America is weaker when it stands alone,” Austin stated, contrasting his message with Trump’s “America First” approach.
The Biden administration has spearheaded international efforts to aid Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022, coordinating support from dozens of countries. Tens of billions of dollars in weapons, training, and security aid have bolstered Kyiv’s resistance against Russia.
As the transition of power approaches, the future of US support for Ukraine remains uncertain, leaving the Biden administration racing against the clock to deliver critical assistance.
