WASHINGTON: The U.S. said Thursday it plans to send $2.2 billion in long-term military aid to Ukraine and 18 other European countries threatened by Russian aggression and another $675 million directly to the Kyiv government in a new munitions package to fight Moscow’s invasion.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a previously unannounced visit to Kyiv to announce the assistance and confer with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about the war against Russia, now in its seventh month.
“Ukraine’s extraordinary front-line defenders continue to courageously fight for their country’s freedom,” Blinken said in a statement after meeting with Zelenskyy. The top U.S. diplomat reaffirmed President Joe Biden’s commitment to support Ukraine “for as long as it takes.”
“I reiterated this message to President Zelenskyy and his team today in Kyiv, which remains—and will remain—the capital of a sovereign, independent Ukraine,” Blinken said.
Blinken entered Ukraine’s fortified presidential administration building through a series of dark hallways with sandbags stacked over windows that eventually led to a white room with gold trim and crystal chandeliers.
Zelenskyy greeted Blinken in English, moments later awarding him the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise for his contributions to Ukraine. “I’m deeply honored,” Blinken said.
Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude for the “enormous support” the United States has sent Ukraine, praising Biden and the U.S. Congress for helping Ukraine “return our territory and lands.”
(VOA)
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