Biden promises military support for Ukraine

U.S. President Joe Biden announced a new military aid package for Ukraine valued at $125 million during a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday, just ahead of Ukraine's Independence Day. The package includes essential military supplies such as air-defense missiles, counter-drone equipment, anti-armor missiles, and ammunition. Biden reaffirmed the United States' "unwavering" support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia, which has escalated since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. In addition to the military aid, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin communicated with his Ukrainian counterpart, Rustem Umerov, emphasizing the critical need for Ukraine to receive these supplies, particularly air defense systems to protect its cities and infrastructure. The U.S. has provided over $50 billion in military assistance to Ukraine since the onset of the war, which began after Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. On the same day, the U.S. imposed sanctions on more than 400 entities and individuals linked to Russia's war efforts, including companies from China believed to be aiding Moscow in evading Western sanctions. Biden reiterated that "Russia will not prevail in this conflict," asserting that the U.S. and its allies will continue to support Ukraine. As the conflict continues, Ukraine has reported battlefield successes, including operations in Russia's Kursk region. However, Russian forces remain active in eastern Ukraine, and the situation remains tense as both sides prepare for further confrontations.