The Biden administration is preparing to unveil a substantial final weapons aid package for Ukraine, as confirmed by senior defense officials. This announcement is expected to take place during Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's visit to Germany, where he will meet with representatives from approximately 50 partner nations that have supported Ukraine since Russia's invasion nearly three years ago.
While the exact dollar amount of the aid package has not been disclosed, officials have indicated that it will be significant. However, it will not utilize the entirety of the approximately $4 billion in congressionally authorized funding for Ukraine. There is expected to be more than a couple of billion dollars remaining for the incoming Trump defense team to allocate if they choose to do so.
Ukraine is currently engaged in a second offensive in Russia's Kursk region, facing long-range missiles and ongoing advances from Russia. Both sides are positioning themselves strategically ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20.
Efforts are underway to ensure a smooth transition, with Biden defense officials engaging with Trump's transition team to address key issues. The aid provided to Ukraine by partner nations, including the U.S., has totaled over $126 billion, with the U.S. contributing $66 billion.
The upcoming aid package will be sourced from existing stockpiles, with the aim of delivering most of the pledged weapons to Ukraine before Trump assumes office. A separate $1.25 billion aid package was recently announced by the administration, with the majority of stockpile equipment already provided to Ukraine.
