The United States has announced a new batch of military aid for Ukraine, including ammunition, missiles, mines, and artillery shells, as Russia continues its assault on the Kharkiv region.
Since May 10th, Ukraine has been defending against an onslaught in Kharkiv, during which Russian forces have made significant territorial gains, the largest in the past 18 months.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that his country today announces the sending of a new and substantial quantity of weapons and equipment to Ukraine to support the brave Ukrainian people in defending their country.
This package, valued at $275 million and part of our efforts to assist Ukraine in repelling the Russian attack near Kharkiv, contains capabilities that are urgently needed there, according to Blinken.
Last month, US lawmakers approved a $61 billion military aid package for Kyiv, which had been stalled in Congress for months due to disagreements. Ukrainian forces have faced setbacks on the battlefield due to shortages of ammunition and funding.
President Joe Biden ordered the delivery of five batches of military aid to Ukraine.
Blinken stated that previous aid packages have already reached the front lines, and this new aid will be delivered as quickly as possible.
Authorities in Kharkiv reported at least seven people killed on Thursday in strikes on the city.
Over 11,000 people have been evacuated from the Kharkiv area since Russia launched its new offensive, according to regional governor Oleh Sinegubov.