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Analysis: Why United States is Rushing to Send $6 Billion in Aid to Ukraine.
The Pentagon has announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with $6 billion in military aid before the inauguration of Donald Trump’s new administration, scheduled for January 20. This initiative aims to ensure continued support for Kyiv amid uncertainties brought about by the presidential transition. Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh confirmed the decision in a press briefing on November 7, 2024, specifying that the assistance will consist of supplies drawn from American stocks and funds allocated through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI).
United States will provide Ukraine with $6 billion in military aid before January 2025. (Picture source: US DoD)
The aid distribution is divided into two parts: $4 billion will be allocated via the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA), which allows weapons to be drawn directly from U.S. reserves, while the remaining $2 billion will come from the USAI, a security assistance program designed to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities. Singh reiterated that Washington is confident in its ability to fulfill these commitments before the new administration takes office.
This military aid, pushed by the Biden administration as it approaches the end of its term, comes amid concerns over the continuity of American support for Ukraine. According to a Politico report, President Joe Biden has expedited these deliveries to preempt a potential halt in arms shipments under the Trump administration, as Trump has previously voiced reservations about a prolonged military engagement in Ukraine. However, Singh emphasized that support for Ukraine remains strong, enjoying bipartisan backing within the U.S. Congress and international support, particularly from the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG), which consists of over 50 countries.
Fears of a possible reduction in American support are surfacing as Ukraine braces for another challenging winter, marked by intensified Russian attacks on its infrastructure. Additionally, the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia, aimed at bolstering Moscow’s forces, is increasing pressure on Kyiv. The expedited U.S. military assistance, ahead of the new administration's arrival, could thus be crucial in supporting Ukraine during this uncertain period.
Since the onset of the Russian invasion in February 2022, the United States has provided substantial military aid to Ukraine, valued at over $43 billion. This aid, delivered in multiple phases, includes the supply of weapons, ammunition, equipment, and advanced defense systems. Key deliveries have included Javelin anti-tank missiles, Patriot air defense systems, M777 howitzers, drones, and HIMARS artillery systems, which have been particularly valuable in Ukraine’s defense efforts. U.S. support has also extended to intelligence and surveillance capabilities, enhancing coordination on the ground. These efforts aim to bolster the resilience of the Ukrainian military in the face of ongoing attacks while maintaining stockpiles for long-term deployments. Washington has repeatedly activated the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA), an emergency mechanism that enables rapid responses by drawing directly from military reserves. The Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) also facilitates further acquisitions, allowing for long-term defense planning.
In conclusion, this rapid delivery of military equipment represents a proactive response to concerns about the future of American support for Ukraine, affirming the United States’ current commitment to Ukraine’s defense despite imminent political changes.