WASHINGTON — With 21 days left in office, President Joe Biden on Monday announced nearly $2.5 billion in additional security assistance for Ukraine. 

What You Need To Know

  • President Joe Biden announced Monday nearly $2.5 billion in additional security assistance for Ukraine

  • Congress has approved a total of $175 billion to help Ukraine defend itself from Russia

  • The most recent allocation includes $1.25 billion in military equipment from U.S. stockpiles and $1.22 billion as part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative

  • Biden said the funds will provide “an immediate influx of capabilities” and “longer-term supplies of air defense, artillery and other critical weapons systems” as the conflict nears its three-year anniversary

Earlier this year, Biden committed to allocating all of the remaining funds Congress appropriated for Ukraine’s defense.

“Since Russia launched its further assault against Ukraine in February 2022, the United States has rallied the world to stand with the Ukrainian people, and it has been a top priority of mine to provide Ukraine with the support it needs to prevail,” the president said in a statement.

Monday’s announcement includes $1.25 billion in military equipment from U.S.stockpiles, as well as $1.22 billion as part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative to provide “an immediate influx of capabilities” and “longer-term supplies of air defense, artillery and other critical weapons systems.”

Congress has approved a total of $175 billion to help Ukraine defend itself from Russia.

It is unclear whether President-elect Donald Trump will continue to aid Ukraine’s defense. During his campaign, Trump questioned U.S. support and pledged to broker an end to the conflict within a day of taking office. Earlier this month, in an interview with CNBC’s “Meet the Press,” he said it was possible Ukraine would receive less military aid after he is inaugurated Jan. 20.