US prepares additional $1.1 billion in aid for Ukraine

The US is preparing another round of aid to Ukraine with a $1.1 billion arms package to help in the war with Russia.

According to MailOnline, the package will be the latest weaponry for Ukraine as it battles Russian forces in eastern Ukraine, government officials say. Officials said the package will be announced in the coming days.

It comes after Moscow claimed on Tuesday that residents of the occupied territories had voted to be annexed and join Russia, referendums that the US government called a “sham” after residents marched to the polls under threats of a weapon.

Officials said the massive package will be announced in the coming days.

The aid comes from funds from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which was earmarked by Congress to allow the Biden administration to procure weapons directly from industry rather than from stockpiles. existing American weapons.

Additionally, Democrats in Congress are preparing to provide more than $12 billion in emergency aid to Ukraine in the fiscal year 2023 appropriations bill.

The White House signaled its support for the additional aid in a statement from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on Tuesday evening.

“The people of Ukraine have inspired the world, and the administration remains committed to supporting the people of Ukraine as they continue to remain resolute and show extraordinary courage in the face of Russia’s full-scale invasion,” says the press release.

The most immediate aid package will include HIMARS launch systems, accompanying munitions, various types of counter-drone systems and radar systems, as well as spare parts, training and technical support, said a source knowledgeable about the plan.

The United States is watching with suspicion as pro-Russian forces hold referendums in occupied areas of Ukraine, the results of which are expected to be announced soon.

Washington is preparing a new series of sanctions against Russia if Moscow annexes these areas after the announcement of the results of the referendum.