The US has declared an extra $200 million for defense support to Ukraine, encompassing ammunition, air defenses, and mine-clearing gear, following a discovered accounting oversight. Earlier in June, the Pentagon identified an extra $6.2 billion available for Ukraine due to a miscalculation in weapon pricing.
The new package, part of several expected allocations, includes munitions for Patriot air defense systems, rounds of small arms ammunition, grenades, and ammunition for Himars rocket launchers, which have been pivotal on the battleground.
Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, emphasized Russia’s role in the ongoing conflict, stating that the US, with its allies, will continue backing Ukraine.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Biden administration has provided $43 billion in security aid and recently sought Congress’ nod for an additional $13 billion.
However, US public sentiment towards military assistance seems to be waning, as recent polls suggest. Meanwhile, potential 2024 Republican nominee, Donald Trump, has expressed skepticism over aiding Ukraine, emphasizing Europe’s role in the matter.