Kyiv: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken embarked on an unannounced visit to Ukraine on Tuesday, to reiterate America’s support for Kyiv amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. During his visit, Blinken held discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and assured Ukrainian officials that US military aid is on its way, which will significantly bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russian aggression.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared insights into his discussions with Blinken during the latter’s visit to Ukraine. Zelenskyy highlighted their detailed conversation on the current battlefield situation, and ongoing defense cooperation.
Addressing Blinken, President Zelenskyy highlighted the urgent need for air defense supplies, stating that they represent “the biggest deficit for us” as Russia has been conducting long-range aerial attacks since March. These attacks have targeted electricity facilities, resulting in blackouts and significant disruptions.
Zelenskyy reiterated the critical importance of Patriot systems in Ukraine, especially in cities like Kharkiv and its surrounding areas, to bolster protection against Russian aggression. He underscored the potential significance of deploying two Patriot systems to Kharkiv, which could significantly contribute to safeguarding lives from Russian threats.
Additionally, the discussions extended to preparations for the Global Peace Summit, with Zelenskyy emphasizing the importance of US participation under President Biden’s leadership to uphold the rules-based international order.
Expressing gratitude, Zelenskyy thanked the American people, the United States Congress, and President Biden and his administration for their unwavering support in Ukraine’s fight for freedom and independence. He further appreciated the United States’ commitment to ongoing support and discussed strategies to swiftly implement announced aid packages and expedite the delivery of weapons to Ukrainian soldiers.
The visit comes as the United States announced a USD 400 million military aid package for Ukraine as the country continues to be in desperate need of Western aid amid intensifying pressure from Russia, The Hill reported.
This package is the third slated for Kyiv after the US passed the national security supplemental last month that included USD 61 billion for Kyiv. The new package includes Patriot air defence munitions and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, which have been crucial to defending Ukraine’s skies and keeping its cities safe, The Hill reported on Friday.
Other equipment includes more High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems and 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds, which Ukraine was in desperate need of to fend off Russian attacks across the front line as Moscow has an advantage in artillery fire, the report said.
The US is also providing Javelin missiles, Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles, M113 Armoured Personnel Carriers, patrol boats and general small arms ammunition, grenades and demolition munitions.
Notably, the announcement comes after the passage of an initial USD 1 billion package in late April, shortly after President Biden signed the national security supplemental bill into law. This had come after months of Congress holding up talks on new aid for Ukraine.
US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin also announced a USD 6 billion package for Ukraine that will require Kyiv to purchase equipment from the defence industrial base before delivery, The Hill reported.
As Russia intensifies pressure across the eastern frontline, making critical advances in the Donetsk region, US aid will play a crucial role in the Ukrainian counter-offensive. This announcement comes on the heels of a fresh attack launched by Russia in the north-eastern Kharkiv region, putting even more pressure on Ukrainian forces.
