US President Joe Biden has pledged over $8 billion in military aid for Ukraine during a visit by President Volodymyr Zelensky, aiming to help Ukraine “win this war” against Russia. This includes providing precision-guided glide bombs like the Joint Standoff Weapon, giving Ukraine a significant upgrade in striking Russian forces from safer distances. Additional support includes air defence systems, unmanned aerial vehicles, and air-to-ground munitions, strengthening Ukraine’s military capabilities.
Biden also announced plans for refurbishing a Patriot air defence battery, more Patriot missiles, and expanded training for Ukrainian F-16 pilots. To counter Russian sanctions evasion, the US will disrupt a global cryptocurrency network. Moreover, a leader-level meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group involving over 50 countries will be convened to coordinate efforts supporting Ukraine.
Amidst bipartisan support in the US for Ukraine, President Trump criticized Zelensky, while congressional Republicans questioned his visit to a munitions factory in Pennsylvania. The Kremlin responded to Russia’s nuclear policy changes, warning Western countries regarding potential consequences in the event of attacks on Russia.