At the UN General Assembly, President Biden once again made it clear that we will support the people of Ukraine as long as necessary. Recent events, from Russia’s sham referendums and attempted annexation to new revelations of brutality against civilians in previously Russian-controlled Ukrainian territory, only strengthen our resolve. Together with our allies and partners from 50 countries, we deliver the weapons and equipment that Ukrainian forces are using so effectively today in a successful counter-offensive to retake their territories illegally seized by Russia.
Pursuant to the President’s authorization, I am authorizing our twenty-second drawdown of U.S. arms and equipment for Ukraine beginning in August 2021. This $625 million drawdown includes additional arms, ammunition, and equipment from the U.S. Department of Defense stockpile. With this drawdown, total U.S. military aid to Ukraine since the beginning of this administration will be more than $17.5 billion.
We will continue to stand by the Ukrainian people as they defend their freedom and independence with extraordinary courage and boundless determination. The capabilities we provide are carefully calibrated to make the biggest difference on the battlefield and strengthen Ukraine’s role at the negotiating table when the time is right.
