In a significant move, the U.S. is poised to announce a $6 billion long-term military aid package for Ukraine, including munitions for Patriot air defense systems. The funding, allocated through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, will cover longer-term contracts with the defense industry, potentially taking months or years for the weapons to reach Ukraine.
The aid will encompass a range of munitions for air defense, such as NASAM, HIMARS, Patriot munitions, drones, counter-drone systems, and artillery. This announcement coincides with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s virtual meeting to discuss international aid for Ukraine, underscoring ongoing efforts to support Kyiv in its conflict with Russian forces. The aid comes on the heels of a $1 billion weapons and equipment delivery approved earlier, demonstrating a robust commitment to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities amidst escalating hostilities.