The United States has announced a $988 million arms package to help Ukraine defend against Russian invasion

A $988 million arms package for Ukraine has been announced by the US, strengthening its defenses against the continuing Russian incursion. 

A $988 million assistance package has been revealed by the US to provide Ukraine with additional weapons and equipment to bolster its defenses against Russia’s continuing assault.

The plan, which was unveiled on Saturday, directs almost half of the $2.21 billion that is still available to the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) toward buying weapons directly from producers rather than using the US military’s current arsenal. 

The Pentagon said the money will be used to buy drones, ammo for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), and artillery system maintenance spare parts. The announcement took place in California during the annual Reagan National military Forum, which brings together politicians and executives of the military sector. 

The Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA), which enables President Joe Biden to transfer excess weapons and services from US military stockpiles more quickly during emergencies without needing legislative permission, is not affected by USAI financing.

About $6 billion in drawdown authority remains available to the Biden administration, including 2024 funding and sums reevaluated by the Pentagon after it overestimated past armament transfers to Ukraine. 

The United States has pledged more than $62 billion in security aid to Ukraine since the start of Russia’s invasion in February 2022, demonstrating its continued support for the beleaguered country.