US announces new $400M arms package for Ukraine, mostly ammunition

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - The Biden administration announced on Friday a new tranche of military assistance for Ukraine worth $400 million as Kyiv prepares for an expected Russian offensive in the spring.

The package includes ammunition for already-provided long-range HIMARS multiple-rocket launcher systems, and howitzer artillery units "which Ukraine is using so effectively to defend itself," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

It will also include ammunition for Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles, Armored Vehicle Launched Bridges, demolitions munitions and equipment, and other maintenance, training, and support, according to Blinken.

"This week, as Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine continues at great cost, we are again reminded of the boundless courage and steadfast resolve of the people of Ukraine as well as the strong support for Ukraine in the international community," he said.

"Russia alone could end its war today. Until Russia does so, for as long as it takes, we will stand united with Ukraine and strengthen its military on the battlefield so that Ukraine will be in the strongest possible position at the negotiating table," he added.

The assistance will come from existing US stocks under US President Joe Biden's authorities to draw from them and transfer to a foreign power.

Fighting has been particularly fierce in Russian-occupied eastern Ukraine as the Kremlin seeks to defend territory under its control and expand into new regions, particularly the town of Bakhmut which Moscow has been trying to seize for seven months.