The United States announced a $725 million weapons package for Ukraine, including Stinger missiles, HIMARS ammunition, drones, and land mines, according to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Reuters reports.
US President Joe Biden authorized the use of the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) allowing the US to send weapons from existing stockpiles to help allies in an emergency. This is the largest aid package in recent months, marking an increase from previous assistance, which had ranged from $125 million to $250 million. The package is part of the Biden administration’s efforts to support Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia before President Biden leaves office in January.
The package includes land mines, which have been controversial due to their potential danger to civilians, though the mines being sent are “non-persistent,” designed to have a short power duration and not pose a long-term threat.
