Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin revealed on Friday that the United States will be making a significant investment in Ukraine’s defense capabilities. With a staggering $6 billion budget, this new weapons purchase is the largest of its kind to date. Its primary objective is to equip Ukraine with the necessary weapons systems, including additional Patriot missiles, to effectively counter Russian missile barrages targeted at its cities.
During a press conference at the Pentagon, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized that the security assistance package currently being provided is the most significant commitment made thus far.
“It will consist of essential interceptors for Ukraine’s Patriot and NASAMS air defense systems, additional counter-drone systems, support equipment, a substantial quantity of artillery ammunition, and air-to-ground munitions. Additionally, it will provide maintenance and sustainment support,” he elaborated.
The Pentagon has once again delivered new aid to Ukraine, marking the second time this week. This assistance comes from the $61 billion aid package recently approved by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden.
The Biden administration made a significant announcement on Wednesday by unveiling a $1 billion aid package. This package aims to swiftly provide Ukraine with weapons and ammunition, sourced from the current military stockpiles of the United States.
The announced aid package of $6 billion, unveiled on Friday, is part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI). This initiative aims to secure contracts with American companies in order to develop weapons that align with Ukraine’s long-term security objectives.
The weapons for Ukraine will take some time to be delivered, despite the expedited contracts, as they will be constructed from scratch.
The United States has made it a top priority to supply Ukraine with additional air defense systems. This commitment was emphasized during the monthly meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which consists of 50 nations that are providing weapons to Ukraine.
“We are in urgent need of Patriot systems and the missiles that accompany them,” emphasized Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky in a heartfelt video message to the group.
According to the speaker, the key to saving lives at present lies in implementing the necessary measures. He emphasizes that a minimum of seven Patriots are required to ensure the safety of our cities. These systems possess the capability to make a significant difference and improve the current situation.
According to Zelenskiy, this year alone, Russian jets have already deployed over 9,000 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine. It is crucial for us to have the capability to intercept and shoot down enemy aircraft to prevent them from approaching our positions and borders.
During the news conference, Austin emphasized that the Patriot weapons systems should not be seen as a quick fix solution. Instead, he stressed the importance of developing an integrated air defense system for Ukraine, which would consist of a combination of different weapons and capabilities.
According to Zelensky, the approval delay for additional U.S. military aid by Congress has allowed Russia to gain the upper hand on the battlefield.
President Zelensky expressed his optimism regarding the progress made by the Ukrainian army on the battlefield. Despite the waiting period for a decision on American support, he highlighted that the Russian army was unable to maintain the initiative. Zelensky emphasized that they have not only managed to stabilize the front but also advance towards their goals in the war.
According to the statement, Ukrainian troops are facing a significant disadvantage in terms of artillery ammunition, with a ratio of 10-to-1. This situation leaves the soldiers feeling helpless and unable to respond effectively to enemy fire. It is believed that this lack of ammunition serves as a source of inspiration for Putin to continue fighting.