Blinken reaffirms US support for Ukraine
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has made a surprise trip to Ukraine on his fourth visit to the country since the Russian invasion began in February 2022. In Kiev, Blinken met with Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky and Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, to whom he conveyed Washington's support. "President Biden asked me to come and strongly reaffirm our support," he said.
In the same way, Blinken assured that the United States remains determined to "continue to walk with Ukraine". In this sense, the head of US diplomacy announced a new aid package of more than one billion dollars for Ukraine.
This new fund, which Blinken described as "significant support for the country's air defences", will be used to restore order and rebuild the areas liberated by Ukrainian forces. The assistance will also "generate further momentum" in the Ukrainian counteroffensive, which, according to Blinken, "has accelerated in recent weeks".
"We've seen good progress in the counteroffensive, which is very encouraging," said the Secretary of State, who also expressed his admiration for the "courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian forces".
Met with President @ZelenskyyUA to convey the United States’ unwavering commitment to Ukraine and its people. We stand with Ukraine, for as long as it takes. pic.twitter.com/NugwW6eeKA
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) September 6, 2023
In terms of military assistance, the package includes up to $175 million to replenish Ukrainian forces with weapons that the US has delivered to the country in the past, such as air defence system materiel, multiple launch guided rocket systems for HIMARS, ammunition, and communications systems, according to the State Department. All of these weapons will come from Pentagon stockpiles and, according to CNN, include for the first time depleted uranium munitions.
The aid also includes $100 million for long-term military support, $90 million to assist demining efforts, $300 million to support law enforcement efforts, $200 million for transparency and anti-corruption efforts, and $200 million for humanitarian assistance. Also, for the first time, the US will transfer seized Russian assets to Ukraine.
I received @SecBlinken in Kyiv.
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) September 6, 2023
I am grateful to the American people, both parties of the U.S. Congress, and personally to @POTUS Joe Biden for their unwavering support.
Ukrainian forces are advancing on the battlefield and we discussed steps to ensure their further successes. pic.twitter.com/gnf9xhCbWT
Zelensky thanked the US for its support in all areas, especially for its help with the energy sector, which has been the victim of numerous attacks by Russian forces. However, the Ukrainian leader also warned of "a difficult winter".
Americas Coordinator: José Antonio Sierra.
