The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression with a new $2 billion military aid package and sanctions targeting Moscow’s metals and mining sector, financial institutions, and companies with alleged ties to sanctions evasion.
The Pentagon announced the new aid package on Friday, which includes ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), artillery rounds, drones, secure communication equipment, and funding for “training, maintenance, and sustainment”. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the US stands strongly with Ukraine until its sovereignty is respected and its people can shape their own future in freedom and peace.
The Department of the Treasury also imposed sanctions on dozens of Russian entities and individuals across the world, blocking their assets in the US and prohibiting Americans from doing business with them. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen noted that these sanctions are having a “significant impact” on Russia’s economy and defense industry, as Moscow is now selling its oil at a “very substantial discount” due to price caps.
The Department of State also targeted dozens of Russian officials and entities with its own sanctions, promising to continue taking action against Moscow until it ends its “brutal war” in Ukraine. The US has been providing Kyiv with financial and military support since Russia launched its all-out invasion of Ukraine one year ago.
Despite the sanctions, Moscow has signalled that it would be undeterred, pledging to “cope with any challenge”. The US has made clear that it will continue to impose costs on Russia for as long as the war continues. As the conflict enters its second year, Washington is determined to stand by Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression.