US and Ukraine to sign strategic security agreement at G7 summit
- The US and Ukraine are poised to sign a significant strategic security pact at the G7 summit in Italy.
- The agreement aims to bolster Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression without committing US troops directly.
- The deal reflects a growing international effort to support Ukraine in the face of ongoing tensions with Russia.
The US and Ukraine are set to sign a bilateral security pact at the G7 summit in Italy, committing the US to 10 years of support for Ukraine's armed forces, including training, military assistance, and intelligence sharing. The agreement does not include a specific monetary pledge but outlines plans for long-term funding. President Biden and President Zelensky will meet during the summit, where the US will announce steps to unlock frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's reconstruction post-war. The deal aims to show US support for Ukraine and deter Russian aggression. Discussions are ongoing on how to use interest from frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine, with some European allies hesitant. The US is prioritizing this issue at the G7 summit, aiming for a limited deal with conditions attached. Western aid is crucial for Ukraine as the conflict continues, with observers suggesting a $50bn loan could provide financing until 2025.