UPDATE - US announces new security assistance package for Ukraine

ADDS DETAILS, CHANGES DECK

By Rabia Iclal Turan

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US announced Wednesday a new security assistance package for Ukraine as that country’s war with Russia drags on.

White House spokesman Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters the package “will include ammunition, provided HIMAR rocket systems and anti-armor systems as well as additional artillery rounds” while noting it is the 36th package to Ukraine since the start of the war in February 2022.

“The United States will continue to work with our allies and partners to help Ukraine defend itself to defend its democracy and protect its people,” she added.

The package consists of arms and equipment valued at $325 million, according to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

"This new security assistance will enable Ukraine to continue to bravely defend itself in the face of Russia’s brutal, unprovoked and unjustified war," he said in a statement.

"Russia could end its war today. Until Russia does, the United States and our allies and partners will stand united with Ukraine for as long as it takes," he said.