Washington — The Biden administration said Monday that it would deliver roughly $6 billion in extra help to Ukraine, perhaps the last batch of funds before President Biden leaves office.
The plan comprises around $2.5 billion in security assistance and $3.4 billion in direct financial help. The sum reflects the last of the funds authorized by Congress earlier this year.
“As I committed earlier this year, the Department of Defense has now allocated all remaining USAI funds appropriated by Congress in the supplemental that I signed in April, and my administration is fully utilizing the funding appropriated by Congress to support the drawdown of U.S. equipment for Ukraine,” a statement from Vice President Biden read. “At my direction, the United States will continue to work relentlessly to strengthen Ukraine’s position in this war over the remainder of my time in office.”
According to the White House, the security support will help Ukraine improve its long-term air defense supplies, artillery, and other important military systems.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said that the economic assistance comes “at a critical time, as Russia intensifies its attacks on Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure.” On Christmas Day, Russia unleashed a missile and drone bombardment against Ukrainian energy infrastructure, leaving hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians in the Kharkiv area without heat in freezing weather. Russian forces have been storming the frontline in the Donetsk area.
“Economic assistance from the United States and our allies is crucial for Ukraine’s ability to defend its sovereignty and achieve a just peace by maintaining the critical government services that underpin its brave fight,” she added.
Yellen said that Ukraine’s triumph is “in America’s core national interest,” as preventing Russia’s invasion of its neighbor would maintain a rules-based system.
“We must not retreat in this effort,” Yellen said.
Biden administration officials are anxious that a Republican-controlled Washington may withhold more help to Ukraine, as Russia’s conflict against the nation enters its third year in February.
President-elect Donald Trump promised to halt Russia’s assault on Ukraine before entering office. But since the election, Trump has altered his tune, arguing that resolving the conflict may be more difficult than bringing peace to the Middle East.
“I believe the situation between Russia and Ukraine will be more difficult,” Trump stated earlier this month. “I see that as more difficult.”
Mr. Biden has said that uniting the world behind Ukraine is one of his finest achievements as president.