United States to provide $200 mln to Ukrainian forces for training, equipment

As Ukraine continues to battle with Russian-backed rebels in its eastern expanse, the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) announced last week that it would provide $200 million for training, equipment, and advisory efforts.

The new funds continue a long-standing defense relationship between the United States and Ukraine. More than $1 billion in U.S. security sector assistance has been sent to Ukraine since 2014 to shore up its defensive capabilities and operational needs. Ukraine seeks such enhancements as greater situational awareness systems, more secure communications, mobility for its military, night vision, and additional medical treatment.

“This is good news, and it sends a clear message that America stands with the Ukrainian people in their struggle to secure a democratic, prosperous, and independent future in the face of Russian aggression,” U.S. Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH), co-chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus and member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said. “When I was in Ukraine in April, I pressed the Ukrainian parliament to pass these defense reforms, and the release of these funds marks another important milestone toward fulfilling America’s promise to stand with Ukraine.”

The security cooperation builds on Ukraine’s recent adoption of the Law of National Security, which aligned Ukraine more tightly with NATO principles and took it a step closer to achieving interoperability with the European military organization. A timeline for delivery and fielding of equipment has yet to be determined, but the DOD promises one will be released in the future.

“I look forward to the full implementation of this bipartisan legislation to help the Ukrainians defend themselves against Russian aggression,” Portman said.