President Biden met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss U.S. aid in the war. Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's suggestion of revising Moscow's nuclear doctrine, Biden announced an additional $8 billion in security assistance for Ukraine.
President Joe Biden met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on Thursday, pledging another $8 billion in security aid amidst growing concerns over Russia's nuclear threats. The aid package includes a previously authorized $5.5 billion presidential drawdown set to expire on Monday and $2.4 billion through the Department of Defense under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.
Biden's announcement comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested that any attack by a non-nuclear nation backed by a nuclear-armed nation could be seen as a "joint attack," potentially escalating the war in Ukraine. Putin also outlined conditions for Russia's use of nuclear weapons, including conventional attacks posing a critical threat to Moscow's sovereignty.
Biden Pledges $8B in Security Aid to Ukraine Amid Nuclear Threats
Despite Putin's attempts to heighten the nuclear threat, Biden reaffirmed America's unwavering support for Ukraine, stating, "We're going to stay with you as long as it takes." He praised Ukraine's achievements with Western assistance, including liberating Kyiv, recapturing half the territory seized by Russia, and maintaining sovereignty and independence.
Biden also announced the first-ever shipment of the Joint Standoff Weapon, a medium-range precision-guided glide bomb with an 81-mile range, which would enable Ukraine to strike Russian targets from a safer distance. The aid package includes an additional Patriot air defense battery and expanded training for 18 F-16 pilots in the coming year.
Biden Pledges $8B in Security Aid to Ukraine Amid Nuclear Threats
The U.S. continues to face concerns over a potential return of former President Donald Trump to the White House, whose administration has expressed skepticism about aid to Ukraine. However, Biden emphasized the importance of continued support for Ukraine to ensure victory in the war.
The $8 billion aid package will bolster Ukraine's defenses against Russian aggression, particularly in the face of escalating nuclear rhetoric. The aid is a testament to the United States' commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and independence, recognizing the importance of countering Russian aggression and upholding global security.
Biden Pledges $8B in Security Aid to Ukraine Amid Nuclear Threats
