The Senate has approved a nearly $61 billion aid package to Ukraine, which is set to be signed by President Biden. This aid package includes desperately needed American weapons that could be arriving on the battlefield within days, providing a lifeline for Kyiv’s military.
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has been vocal about the country’s urgent need for artillery ammunition, long-range missiles, and air defenses to strike Russian forces and protect key infrastructure. The aid package is expected to include shoulder-fired Stinger surface-to-air missiles, 155-millimeter shells, anti-tank guided missiles, and battlefield vehicles.
However, the package may not include everything that Ukraine has requested, such as the longer-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) and the American-made Patriot air-defense system. There are concerns about whether the aid will be enough to make an immediate difference in Ukraine’s fight against Russian forces.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has mentioned that the aid package will allow for advanced air-defense systems to be sent to Ukraine, but the specifics are unclear. While efforts are being made to deliver F-16 jets to Ukraine, the United States has not committed to donating any warplanes at this time.
Despite the aid package providing much-needed support, there are doubts about whether the weapons and equipment will be delivered quickly and consistently to keep up with the demand. Ukrainian officials remain skeptical about the availability and readiness of the weapons that the funding will pay for.
The aid package is a step in the right direction for Ukraine, but questions remain about the effectiveness and timeliness of the support in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The coming days will be crucial in determining the impact of the aid on the battlefield and Ukraine’s ability to defend itself.
