WASHINGTON: US President Joe Biden has asked Congress for more than $13 billion in connection with new military aid to Ukraine, AFP reported.
According to a letter written by Office of Management and Budget (OMB) director Shalanda Young to Congressional leader Kevin McCarthy, the funding would help strengthen the armed forces of Ukraine, fighting a war with Russia.
She said President Biden has reaffirmed that the US will stand with Ukraine.
She said this strategy of the US has successfully united its allies and partners to equip Ukraine to protect itself against Russian attacks.
The United States has pledged more than $43.7 billion in security aid to Ukraine so far, according to the Department of Defence recent statement.
US to Give $200 Million Military Assistance to Ukraine
This latest aid will contain missiles for the High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and the Patriot air defense system, munitions for howitzers and tanks, Javelin rockets, mine-clearing equipment, 12 million rounds of small arms ammunition and demolition munitions, an official told media on condition of anonymity as the aid has not yet been publicly announced.
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister of Russia Sergey Shoygu had accused the US of committing war crimes by supplying cluster bombs to Ukraine, which is prohibited by international law.
Amid escalating tensions, Russia has conducted multiple waves of attacks on Ukraine while Ukrainian forces targeted bridges within their occupied territories in the preceding.
The situation remains highly critical in the area, with both sides engaged in military operations. The ongoing developments underscore the delicate balance of power and the complex geopolitical landscape in the region. Ends
