The Biden administration marked the one-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on Friday by announcing a $2 billion arms package for Ukraine and new sanctions targeting Russia.
Sanctions failed to have the impact on Russia that the US hoped for, but the Biden administration has continued to impose them throughout the war. According to the White House, the new sanctions targeted over 200 individuals and entities, including in Russia and other countries across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The White House said the Commerce Department also listed nearly 90 companies on an export control list accused of helping Russia evade sanctions. The list includes mostly Russian companies, but also some based in China. Biden also imposed more tariffs on Russian metals, minerals, and chemical products.
The Pentagon announced the $2 billion in military aid, which includes HIMARS ammunition and three types of small drones that the US has not previously sent. The weapons are being provided through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which allows the Pentagon to purchase weapons for Ukraine.
The weapons package includes:
- Additional ammunition for HIMARS
- Additional 155mm artillery rounds
- Munitions for laser-guided rocket systems
- CyberLux K8 drones
- Switchblade 600 drones
- Altius-600 drones
- Jump 20 drones
- Counter-UAS and electronic warfare detection equipment
- Mine clearing equipment
- Secure communications support equipment
- Funding for training, maintenance, and sustainment
The US has provided Ukraine with the Switchblade drones, but this is the first time the Pentagon has pledged to send the CyberLux K8, Altius-600, and Jump 20 (more info on the drones here).
According to a fact sheet released by the Pentagon, the US pledged $31.7 billion in military equipment for Ukraine during the first year of the war. New aid packages are still being pulled from the $45 billion for Ukraine spending Congress approved in December.
Germany’s DW was more honest in such coverage, admitting Europe couldn’t agree on yet more sanctions. Apparently some of these new US sanctions are to punish the EU nations not towing the line, secondary sanctions on Russia’s nuclear power support company. The US can’t tolerate a free marketplace after all.
Any idea if DW reported the Seymour Hersh REPORT?
Perhaps Joey Biden should send Ukraine some balloons also.
US Announces $2 Billion Money Package for US Politicians, New Sanctions on US