$300M U.S. Military Aid for Ukraine Amidst Ammunition Crisis and Congressional Gridlock
March 12, 2024The Biden administration has pledged a $300 million emergency military aid package for Ukraine, which includes artillery ammunition and HIMARS rocket systems.
The assistance is in response to Ukraine's acute munitions shortage, with reports of troops rationing supplies on the battlefield.
These funds are being reallocated from Pentagon cost savings, but the department faces a $10 billion deficit in its replenishment funds.
The Pentagon is seeking a supplemental spending bill to address the shortfall, but partisan disagreement in Congress, particularly Republican opposition, is hindering the passage of additional aid.
Polish officials are urging the U.S. to expedite support to Ukraine, yet House Speaker Mike Johnson has not allowed a vote on the matter.
Since the start of the Biden administration, the U.S. has provided Ukraine with over $44.9 billion in security aid, but the current impasse is affecting ongoing military operations, including a forced withdrawal from Avdiivka.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has mentioned some temporary improvements on the front but cautions of a potential imminent Russian offensive.
Summary based on 17 sources
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Sources
The New York Times • Mar 12, 2024
U.S. to Send $300 Million in Weapons to Ukraine Under Makeshift PlanThe Guardian • Mar 12, 2024
US preparing stopgap $400m military aid package for Ukraine – reportBBC News • Mar 12, 2024
White House to send new $300m weapons package to UkraineReuters • Mar 12, 2024
US preparing new weapons package for Ukraine, officials say