US Prepares $1 Billion Aid Package for Ukraine Amid Growing Tensions with Russia
WASHINGTON — As tensions between Ukraine and Russia escalate, the Biden administration is gearing up to provide a new aid package worth approximately $1 billion to Ukraine. Multiple sources familiar with the matter revealed to CNN that President Joe Biden is set to approve the aid package after the Senate passes a new foreign aid funding bill, expected as soon as Tuesday afternoon.
In recent briefings to Congress, administration officials hinted at plans to send Ukraine long-range ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile Systems) for the first time as part of the aid package. The midrange variant of the ATACMS missile system, previously sent to Ukraine, can reach about 100 miles, while the longer-range version can extend up to 190 miles.
Despite Ukrainian officials’ persistent requests for the long-range missile to target deeper behind Russian lines, American officials have been hesitant due to concerns about supplies and provoking Moscow further.
The urgency for aid has heightened as US officials paint a grim picture of the situation on the Ukrainian battlefield. CIA Director Bill Burns warned that Ukraine could lose the war by the end of the year without US support, while EUCOM commander Gen. Chris Cavoli highlighted Russia’s overwhelming advantage in artillery ammunition.
Senator Mark Warner emphasized the critical need for ATACMS missiles to be sent to Ukraine promptly, stating, “It should have happened six months ago. The next best time is right now.”
The aid package is also expected to include air defense and artillery ammunition, Bradley fighting vehicles, and demolition weaponry to bolster Ukraine’s defenses.
Once the Senate approves the funding, US European Command will expedite the process of transferring the weaponry to Ukraine, ensuring a swift response to the escalating crisis. The Pentagon aims to begin transferring the aid within a week or two of the funding’s approval.
