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U.S. sends Ukraine $1 billion to fight off Russian horde; over 50 other nations pledge support

Vladimir Putin, a war criminal, and definitely not a genius, started a major war in Ukraine. Now, the World has lined up to stop him, but will it be enough?

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – Representatives from more than 50 nations pledged to get more military capabilities into the hands of Ukrainian forces battling Russian invaders, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III said in Brussels this week, according to the Defense Department.

President Joe Biden and the U.S. pledged $1 billion of new U.S. military assistance for Ukraine as it attempts to defend itself from the onslaught of Russia brought about by the tyrant known as Vladimir Putin. NATO and other nations are pledging support as well.

Antony J. Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State, had this to say Wednesday in announcing the commitment from America:

Today, we announced an additional $1 billion in additional military assistance for Ukraine. Pursuant to a delegation of authority from the President, I am authorizing our twelfth drawdown of arms and equipment from U.S. Department of Defense inventories for Ukraine’s defense since August 2021, valued at up to $350 million. This authorization, combined with $650 million in additional assistance also announced today under the U.S. Department of Defense’s Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, will bring total U.S. security assistance to Ukraine to over $5.6 billion since Russia launched its brutal and unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24.

When he decided to launch an unjustified invasion against his neighbor, President Putin intended to divide the United States and its Allies and partners. Nevertheless, we are stronger and more united than ever. The Kremlin thought it would undermine or even overthrow the Ukrainian government, but President Zelenskyy and the democratically elected government of Ukraine stand strong. Russia’s forces lost the battle for Kyiv and continue a slow and grinding offensive in Ukraine’s east and south, held back by Ukraine’s resolute and valiant defenders.

U.S. security assistance and that of more than 40 Allies and partners continue to strengthen Ukraine’s position to defend its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, secure victories on the battlefield, and ultimately strengthen Ukraine’s position at the negotiating table. We have imposed powerful sanctions on Russia, bolstered NATO’s deterrence and defense on the Eastern Flank, and provided historic levels of military and other assistance to Ukraine as it has bravely defended its territory and its freedom.

Our resolve is unwavering. We stand united with Ukraine.

Austin echoed Blinken’s announcement.

“I’m especially pleased that defense leaders from some 50 countries came together here today,” Austin said. “It’s a testament to the on-the-ground impact of this contact group that it continues to grow.”

Austin announced that President Joe Biden had approved a $1 billion security assistance package for Ukraine. This will include multiple launch rocket system munitions, 18 more 155 mm M777 towed howitzers and the tactical vehicles to tow them, and 36,000 rounds of 155 mm ammunition.

“This package also includes $650 million in Ukraine security assistance initiative funds that will help Ukraine defend itself with two additional Harpoon Coastal Defense Systems and thousands of secure radios, night vision devices, thermal sights and other optics,” the secretary said.

Allies and partners are also building Ukraine’s military capabilities. Austin said Germany will provide three multiple-launch rocket systems and guided MLRS munitions to Ukraine. “Slovakia announced a significant donation of MI-series helicopters and urgently needed rocket ammunition,” Austin said. “We also discussed important new artillery donations from many countries, including Canada, Poland and the Netherlands.”

The war in Ukraine grinds on in the eastern portion of the nation, but reports say folks in the capitol city of Kyiv wear flak jackets regularly. Putin has made it known, he intends to add to Russia’s sprawling land mass. Other nations on its border clearly see they could be next.

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