The US has approved an additional $8 billion in military aid to Ukraine today

President Joe Biden announced over $8 billion in military aid for Ukraine on Thursday, aimed at helping Kyiv defend against Russian forces. The announcement was made during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, marking a significant U.S. commitment to Ukraine's defense.

Included in the aid package is the first delivery of the Joint Standoff Weapon, a precision-guided glide bomb with a range of up to 81 miles (130 km). This medium-range missile will enhance Ukraine’s ability to strike Russian targets from a safer distance, offering a significant upgrade in its military capabilities. The bomb, designed for high-accuracy strikes, will be deployed from fighter jets. However, a U.S. official clarified that Biden will not authorize Ukraine to use U.S. missiles for deeper strikes within Russian territory.

“We’re making it clear that we stand with Ukraine now and in the future,” Biden told reporters before meeting with Zelenskiy in the Oval Office. He emphasized the U.S. commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s battlefield position and instructed the Pentagon to allocate all remaining security funds before his term ends in January.

Zelenskiy expressed gratitude for the support and underscored the importance of securing Ukraine’s future within the European Union and NATO, though Ukraine’s pursuit of NATO membership has not yet materialized.

The majority of the aid, $5.5 billion, will be allocated before the U.S. fiscal year ends on Monday. An additional $2.4 billion will come through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which allows the U.S. to procure weapons for Ukraine from defense contractors rather than depleting U.S. military reserves.

This aid will bolster Ukraine’s air defense, provide drones, air-to-ground munitions, and support the country’s defense industrial base. It will also include an additional Patriot air defense battery and more Patriot missiles. Biden has directed the Pentagon to expand training for Ukrainian F-16 pilots, planning to train 18 more pilots next year.

Zelenskiy thanked Biden and Congress for the support, assuring that Ukraine would use the aid "in the most efficient and transparent manner." On social media platform X, Zelenskiy specifically highlighted the importance of the Patriot systems, drones, and long-range missiles for Ukraine's defense.