Antony Blinken Announces $700 Million Aid to Fortify Ukraine's Energy Grid

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken declared over $700 million in aid for Ukraine to bolster its energy grid and provide humanitarian support. This package includes $325 million for energy infrastructure, $290 million for basic needs, and $102 million for demining operations.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced more than $700 million in aid for Ukraine Wednesday during a visit to Kyiv, aiming to bolster the energy grid that Russia has repeatedly pounded ahead of an expected difficult winter.

Speaking at a news conference with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Blinken said the assistance will also provide humanitarian support and cover demining operations.

The $325 million in energy support in the package will help repair and restore Ukraine's power generation facilities, provide emergency backup power and strengthen the physical security of energy infrastructure.

Approximately $290 million will fund food, water, shelter, health care, and education programs for Ukrainians in need within the country and refugees outside it. An additional $102 million is earmarked for mine-removal activities.

Last week, the US announced an extra $250 million in weapons for Ukraine, including air defense missiles and artillery.

(With inputs from agencies.)