In a move to bolster Ukraine’s defenses, President Joe Biden announced on Tuesday that the United States and five NATO allies would surge air defense systems to Ukraine. This joint effort aims to provide the besieged nation with the necessary capabilities to counter Russia’s aerial attacks, which have increasingly targeted Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.
The United States, along with the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Romania, will deliver five long-range air defense systems, including an additional Patriot battery, as well as dozens of tactical air defense systems to Ukraine. This support is intended to enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend against Russia’s aerial threats.
In remarks at the NATO summit, Biden honored outgoing NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg with the Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States. The President’s announcement was part of a broader effort to demonstrate NATO’s unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s aggression.
Recent attacks on Ukrainian cities, which killed dozens of civilians, have only intensified the need for Ukraine to have access to advanced air defense systems. NATO officials have warned that Russia could launch a similar large-scale aerial attack on Ukraine in the coming days, timed to coincide with the NATO summit.
Meanwhile, the Biden administration has made clear its commitment to prioritizing Ukraine’s military needs, even if it means deprioritizing other allies who have purchased military equipment from the United States. However, despite the recent attacks, the administration has maintained its policy of not allowing Ukraine to use U.S.-provided weapons to target Russian territory.
