US prepares new military aid package for Ukraine amid Russian offensive in Kharkiv Oblast
White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized the US's unwavering commitment to Ukraine in fighting for its democracy and against Russian aggression.
White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre stated that the US is working on the next package of urgently needed assistance for Ukraine, although she did not provide specifics on what would be included.
This news comes as the US approved a $61 billion military aid package to Ukraine in April this year after a six-month delay in Congress. At the same time, Russians initiated an offensive in Kharkiv Oblast, using to their advantage Ukraine’s shortage of ammunition and weapons during the delay in weapons delivery.
At the White House briefing on 15 May, Jean-Pierre emphasized that the US is “committed” to providing support to Ukrainian forces fighting Russian aggression, especially in Kharkiv Oblast now.
“We are committed to Ukraine continuing to fight for their democracy, continuing to fight Russia’s aggression,” she said.
The spokesperson reported that Russian forces initiated an attempt to advance in Kharkiv Oblast to establish a buffer zone along the Ukrainian border.
She also noted that the US showed its commitment to Ukraine’s support through this week’s visit to Kyiv by the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
On 14 May, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Kyiv to demonstrate US solidarity with Ukraine amid intensified Russian attacks.
At a meeting with Blinken, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the urgent need for two Patriot air defense systems to protect northeastern Kharkiv Oblast.
In April, on the same day Biden signed a $61 billion aid package, the US also announced a new $1 billion package for Ukraine, including anti-air ammunition, long-range rockets, artillery ammunition, military vehicles, and anti-tank weapons.
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