US to send $350mln military aid to Kiev, re-vows 'as long as it takes'

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
20 Mar 2023 18:44

The US Secretary of State says the military package will include ammo for HIMARS and anti-air systems.

Pallets of 155mm shells ultimately bound for Ukraine are loaded by the 436th Aerial Port Squadron, Friday, April 29, 2022, at Dover Air Force Base, Del (AP)

The United States announced Monday that it will provide Ukraine with new military aid amounting to $350 million, including HIMARS and howitzers ammunition, anti-tank systems, and Bradley armored vehicles.

"Russia alone could end its war today. Until Russia does, we will stand united with Ukraine for as long as it takes," Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated.

The military package, which was provided through funds already allocated by the US Congress, will also include HARM anti-air missiles used to target electronic transmissions coming from surface-to-air radar systems.

"As Russia's unconscionable war of aggression against Ukraine continues at great human cost, we are again reminded of the boundless courage and steadfast resolve of the Ukrainian people, and the strong support for Ukraine across the international community," Blinken added.

- US deep into its global ammo stockpile -

Last week, The Wall Street Journal reported that Ukraine's insatiable demand for artillery for several months has exceeded Western expectations, leading the United States to turn to its stockpiles to help Kiev prepare for a counterattack on Russia.

The report added that US allies are "unwilling" or "unable" to supply enough ammunition for Ukraine, and the US military is pulling from its munition supplies in a number of locations, including "Israel," South Korea, Germany, and Kuwait.