WASHINGTON, USA: The United States is set to announce over $2.3 billion in new security aid for Ukraine, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin revealed during a meeting with Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov at the Pentagon on Tuesday. Austin acknowledged Ukraine’s aspirations to join NATO, stating that steps would be taken to “build a bridge to NATO membership for Ukraine” at the upcoming NATO summit in Washington.
This new weapons package will include anti-tank weapons and air defence interceptors, as well as accelerated procurement of NASAMS and Patriot air defence systems. Austin emphasized the urgency of supporting Ukraine’s defence against frequent missile and drone attacks from Russian forces. “This package, under presidential drawdown authority, will provide more air defence interceptors, anti-tank weapons, and other critical munitions from U.S. inventories,” Austin said.
Since 2022, the U.S. has given Ukraine with more than $50 billion in military aid. However, the future of U.S. support could be uncertain if Donald Trump wins the upcoming presidential election. Trump’s advisors have proposed a plan to condition further U.S. weapons support on Ukraine entering peace talks with Russia, a significant shift in U.S. policy that could face opposition from European allies and within Trump’s own party.
During the meeting, Umerov expressed gratitude for the new assistance and reiterated Ukraine’s goal of joining NATO. “Hopefully soon Ukraine will receive its invitation,” Umerov said, expressing optimism about Ukraine’s NATO membership prospects.
