Analysis from international relations experts or major news outlets

US Sends $500 Million Aid to Ukraine Before Trump's Inauguration, Including HIMARS Munitions

Dec 12, 2024, 11:40 PM

The United States has announced a new $500 million military aid package for Ukraine, as confirmed by Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The package includes ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds, air defense systems, drones, armored vehicles, Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (c-UAS) munitions, and protective equipment against biological, chemical, and nuclear threats. This marks the 72nd such drawdown package announced by the United States, bringing the total US security assistance to Ukraine to $62 billion since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022. The Biden administration aims to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict with Russia and is seeking to deliver as much support as possible before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration.