Biden Administration Announces New Aid Package for Ukraine
Details of the Latest Aid Package
On Friday, the Biden administration revealed its third installment of aid for Ukraine, following President Biden's approval of Congress' $95 billion foreign aid package, which allocates $60 billion in total funding for Ukraine. The most recent package, worth $400 million, will include High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, Patriot missiles, various types of ammunition, and armored vehicles such as Bradleys.
Additional Aid Components
In addition to the aforementioned items, the package will also supply a number of coastal and riverine patrol boats, trailers, demolition munitions, high-speed anti-radiation missiles, protective gear, spare parts, and other weapons and equipment. These items will be dispatched through presidential drawdown authority, which allows for the quick deployment of systems and munitions from existing U.S. stockpiles to the war front.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Aid Package
There is currently no confirmation if this package will include the longer-range Army Tactical Missile System, capable of hitting targets up to 190 miles away. Moscow has warned that those supplying Ukraine with weapons that could be used against Russian territory will be considered direct participants in the war.
Irony of the Aid Package Announcement
Interestingly, the announcement of this new $400 million package coincided with Russia's launch of a major cross-border offensive into the Kharkiv region. The objective is to establish a 'buffer zone' inside Ukraine territory to protect Russian citizens from cross-border shelling and more effectively intercept threats such as drones.
Ukraine's Ammunition Shortage
Currently, Ukrainian soldiers are scouring previous battle sites for unexploded artillery shells due to a severe ammunition shortage. The Wall Street Journal highlights this issue, noting that a soldier who hunts for Russian shells and makes his own bombs has become a crucial supplier for some units.
Depletion of Artillery Shell Production in the US
David Sacks highlighted on Thursday the significant decrease in artillery shell production in the US, suggesting that Kiev's external supporters are becoming weaker amid the ongoing escalation.
Consequences of the Ammunition Shortage
The ammunition shortage has led to dangerous situations, with brigades sending their de-miners to find more ammunition. This work has proven to be perilous, with one individual killed while trying to deactivate an antipersonnel mine.
Implications of the Ukraine War on America
The proxy war in Ukraine has ultimately weakened America's ability to defend itself. Even if the war ended immediately, it would take over five years to replenish the stockpiles of artillery shells, Javelins, and Stingers.
Conclusion
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the subsequent aid packages from the US have significant implications, not just for the immediate parties involved, but also for America's ability to defend itself. What are your thoughts on this matter? Share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
