US President Joe Biden has announced additional military aid of 7.9 billion dollars for Ukraine, saying it is essential for the country to gain battleground advantage to end the war with Russia.
Biden pledged the support in a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on Thursday.
Biden said, “We have to strengthen Ukraine’s position on the battlefield,” and “look ahead to help Ukraine succeed in long term.” He said, “These two elements are critical for how this war ends.”
Biden told Zelenskyy: “Russia will not prevail in war. Ukraine will prevail.” He added, “We’ll continue to stand by you every step of the way.”
The aid package includes the provision of long-range missiles to enhance Ukraine’s long-range strike capabilities and an additional Patriot air-defense battery and missiles for the system, according to the White House.
Biden also said he will convene a leader-level meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Germany in October to discuss support for Ukraine.
Zelenskyy said the US aid package “will be a great help.” Referring to his “Plan of Victory” to end the war, he said, “We are preparing to discuss the details to strengthen the Plan, coordinate our positions, views, and approaches.”
Zelenskyy also held talks with US Vice President Kamala Harris, who told him that her support for the people of Ukraine is unwavering.
Zelenskyy showed his intention to “share the details of the Plan” with her.