The Biden administration announced plans to deliver $275 million in weapons to Ukraine, part of an urgent effort to bolster Kyiv’s defenses against Russia before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. The package, revealed Tuesday by U.S. officials, includes advanced air defense systems, artillery rounds, Javelin missiles, and other critical military equipment.
The new aid comes as tensions escalate in the conflict. This week, President Joe Biden authorized Ukraine to strike deeper into Russian territory using U.S.-provided long-range missiles, while Russian President Vladimir Putin lowered the threshold for potential nuclear weapon use. The Pentagon confirmed Ukraine used American ATACMS missiles to target an ammunition depot in Russia’s Bryansk region, with significant damage reported.
The rush to supply Ukraine highlights the administration’s effort to exhaust existing funding before Trump assumes the presidency on January 20. Trump has pledged to prioritize a rapid end to the war, suggesting Ukraine might have to cede territory to achieve peace. Biden officials are determined to strengthen Ukraine’s position heading into the winter and ahead of potential negotiations under Trump’s leadership.
To meet congressional deadlines, the Pentagon must transfer $7.1 billion in weapons to Ukraine, including $4.3 billion from a foreign aid bill passed earlier this year and $2.8 billion saved through cost adjustments on prior equipment shipments. Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh confirmed efforts are underway to utilize the funds while ensuring U.S. stockpiles remain replenished fully. Singh explained, “As our shelves continue to get stocked with equipment and capabilities that are needed, we draw down from those and send those to Ukraine.”
In addition to the $275 million drawdown, the State Department authorized a $100 million arms sale to Ukraine, covering vehicle refurbishments and technical support. Unlike the drawdown, Ukraine will fund this purchase independently. Separately, discussions are advancing for the U.S. to finalize its portion of a $50 billion international loan to Ukraine, backed by frozen Russian assets.
Trump’s approach to Ukraine represents a stark shift from Biden’s. Trump has buckled down on his stance, stating, “We’re going to work very hard on Russia and Ukraine. It’s got to stop. Russia and Ukraine’s gotta stop.”
