The United States is sending $1 billion in military aid to outgunned Ukraine

Photo Credit: Gage Skidmore

During a fight where Ukrainian forces are outnumbered and outgunned by their Russian invaders, America and its allies have promised to offer longer-range weapons which they say could make a significant difference.

According to U.S. President Joe Biden and his top national security officials, the U.S. is moving as fast as possible so crucial weapons can reach the fight, even while Ukrainian officials contend that they need more, faster, to survive.

“Gen. Milley and I have been in a number of fights. And when you’re in a fight, you can never get enough,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said at a press conference in Brussels, referring to Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

U.S. forces are training Ukrainian troops on the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems currently equipped with anti-ship missile launchers, howitzers, and more rounds, according to the latest package. Ukrainian leaders have requested all three weapons systems as they battle to stall Russia's march towards conquest of the eastern Donbas region.

The aid is the largest single tranche of weapons and equipment since the war began. Biden, who spoke by phone with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for about 40 minutes Wednesday, also said the U.S. will send $225 million more in humanitarian assistance to provide safe drinking water, medical supplies, food, health care, shelter and money for families to buy essential items.

16 June 2022