Blinken's Unannounced Kyiv Visit Reaffirms US Support with $61 Billion Aid Amid Russian Attacks

May 14, 2024, 07:25 PM

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made an unannounced visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, to reaffirm American support amid intensified Russian attacks. This visit is the first by a senior U.S. official since Congress approved a long-delayed $61 billion military aid package for Ukraine, including $400 million announced last month. Blinken met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and senior military officials, pledging ongoing support and announcing additional air defense systems. He emphasized the impact of the new U.S. weapons package on the battlefield, stating it would make a 'real difference' as Ukraine faces setbacks and has had to ration ammunition. Blinken also mentioned a 10-year security agreement with Ukraine.