Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude to the United States for a newly announced $300 million aid package, which includes urgently needed weapons. This funding was made available through unexpected savings in existing contracts.
Zelensky shared his thanks on Twitter, acknowledging US President Joe Biden, his administration, Congress, and the American public. He emphasized the critical need for these weapons in Ukraine, not only on the frontline but also for protecting civilian areas and infrastructure.
"I appreciate the implementation of our agreements with President Biden. We expect Congress to approve additional funding as soon as possible to help us bring our joint victory closer," Zelensky stated.
This $300 million aid package, the first since December 2023, was facilitated by unforeseen savings from Pentagon contracts initially meant to replenish the weapons supplied to Ukraine.
The additional funding has been a point of contention in the US Congress, with debates ongoing since last fall. These discussions have been part of a larger debate over national security funding, which includes support for Ukraine and has been entangled with disputes between Democrats and Republicans over anti-immigration measures at the southern US border.
Despite the Senate's approval of the package, House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican, has indicated potential obstacles in its passage.
