The United States on Tuesday announced a new $250 million military assistance package for Ukraine that includes equipment for clearing mines and obstacles.
Kyiv’s forces are trying to make significant gains in a counteroffensive began earlier this summer, which has gone up against formidable Russian defenses including as minefields, trenches, and tank barriers.
The assistance would “help Ukraine counter Russia’s ongoing war of aggression on the battlefield and protect its people,” according to a statement from the Pentagon.
Air defense missiles, artillery rounds, anti-armor missiles, and over three million rounds of small arms ammunition are also included in the package.
The US has led the international campaign for Ukraine’s backing, immediately forming an international coalition to defend Kyiv after Russia invaded in February 2022 and arranging help from dozens of countries.
Washington has committed to providing tens of billions of dollars in military aid to Kyiv since Russia’s invasion began.
“I am grateful to all American people, the Congress and personally to President Joseph Biden… for the new defense package,” Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky posted on Z, formerly known as Twitter.
“Freedom needs protection, and this protection is growing strong,” he added.