John Kirby, the Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council, has publicly confirmed that the United States has utilized approximately 96% of the previously approved security, economic, and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. Speaking at a press briefing reported by the Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform, Kirby detailed that out of the more than $60 billion provided since the onset of the war, the vast majority of this support, which encompasses not just security assistance but also economic and humanitarian aid, has been expended.
Kirby highlighted the urgent need for Congress to approve President Joe Biden’s request for additional support for Ukraine. The call for further aid underscores the critical stage of the conflict, with Kirby emphasizing that over 90% of the security assistance alone has already been used by Ukrainian forces.
The American coordinator stressed the importance of continuing to provide security aid to Ukraine to maximize its defensive capabilities before the onset of harsh weather conditions, which could complicate battlefield progress.
This plea comes as U.S. support for Ukraine has been pivotal in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The substantial aid package has included financial assistance to bolster the Ukrainian economy, humanitarian aid to address the growing refugee crisis, and security assistance comprising weapons, training, and intelligence support.
The United States’ near-exhaustion of the allocated aid package signifies not only the intense consumption of resources during the conflict but also the U.S. commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and defense. As winter approaches, the strategic importance of timely aid becomes increasingly acute, with conditions on the ground becoming more challenging.
The Biden administration’s request for additional funds reflects a steadfast dedication to supporting Ukraine amid one of Europe’s most significant conflicts in recent history. The continued assistance is a testament to the U.S.’s role on the international stage as a defender of democracy and an ally to nations under threat.