Biden Administration Sends $125 Million Military Aid to Ukraine Amid Strategic Advances

The Biden administration is sending $125 million in military aid to Ukraine, including air defense missiles and other equipment. This move comes as Ukraine broadens its offensive into Russia near Kursk. Pentagon officials are assessing how these actions align with Ukraine's broader war objectives.

The Biden administration has announced a new $125 million military aid package for Ukraine, according to U.S. officials on Thursday. This latest support includes air defense missiles, HIMARS munitions, and various anti-armor systems. The aid is being expedited through presidential drawdown authority and may be officially announced on Friday, the day before Ukraine's Independence Day.

This assistance comes as Ukrainian forces continue their surprise offensive into Russia, capturing roughly 100 square kilometers around Kursk. Concurrently, Russian troops are advancing in the east around the strategic logistics hub of Pokrovsk. Pentagon officials are working closely with Ukrainian leaders to understand their long-term objectives for the operation near Kursk, particularly given Russia's advances around Pokrovsk.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the border area where the recent offensive began, reporting the capture of another Russian village and more prisoners of war. This latest aid package brings the total U.S. security assistance to Ukraine since Russia's 2022 invasion to more than $55.7 billion.

(With inputs from agencies.)