Biden boosts Ukraine’s defence with $2.5 billion military aid package

US President Joe Biden announced on December 30 an additional $2.5 billion in security assistance for Ukraine, reinforcing military aid to Kyiv in the final weeks of his presidency as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office.

"In line with my directive, the United States will continue to work tirelessly to strengthen Ukraine’s position in this conflict for the remainder of my time in office," Biden said in a statement, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

"This new package underscores our commitment to Ukraine's defence as it faces relentless Russian aggression."

The assistance package includes $1.25 billion in military aid drawn from US stockpiles, alongside a $1.22 billion Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) package, the final USAI allocation of Biden's tenure.

The USAI funds military equipment that is procured from the defence industry or partner nations, meaning it could take months or even years to be delivered. In contrast, US stockpiles provide more immediate support.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is nearing its third year, with the conflict escalating as Moscow has reportedly enlisted North Korean troops to reinforce its forces.

White House spokesperson John Kirby confirmed that North Korean troops have suffered significant casualties, with around 1,000 killed or wounded in the past week alone in Russia’s Kursk region. "These numbers highlight the scale of the ongoing human cost of this war," Kirby told reporters.

Biden’s new package is aimed at providing Ukraine with "an immediate influx of capabilities," the statement said, including air defence systems, artillery, and other vital weapons, which have been effective on the battlefield.

"Ukraine will continue to use this support to great effect in its fight to defend its sovereignty," Biden added. "The long-term supplies of air defence, artillery, and critical weapons systems will also be pivotal in Ukraine’s continued resistance."

Since the onset of the war, the United States has committed $175 billion in total aid to Ukraine. However, it remains uncertain whether this level of support will continue under Trump, who takes office on January 20. Trump has repeatedly called for a swift end to the conflict and suggested that European allies should contribute more to Ukraine’s defence.

Some Republicans, who will control both the House of Representatives and Senate starting next month, have expressed scepticism about further aid to Kyiv.

Biden also stated that the Department of Defence is in the process of delivering hundreds of thousands of artillery rounds, thousands of rockets, and hundreds of armoured vehicles to support Ukraine as it heads into the harsh winter months.

"These deliveries will strengthen Ukraine’s hand as it continues to defend its territory against Russian aggression," Biden said.

The Biden administration’s continued support highlights the ongoing US commitment to Ukraine, though future assistance will hinge on the policies of the incoming Trump administration.

By Aghakazim Guliyev