US commits $988M in new Ukraine weapons package

The U.S. has announced a $988 million aid package for Ukraine, focusing on new arms and equipment amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. This funding significantly reduces the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative to $2.21 billion.

The package includes ammunition for HIMARS, drones, and spare parts for artillery. The announcement coincided with the annual Reagan National Defense Forum in California.

While the Biden administration has frequently utilized Presidential Drawdown Authority for quick arms transfers, this aid will purchase new weapons from the defense industry. To date, the U.S. has committed over $62 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since February 2022.