PRESS STATEMENT
ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE
MAY 19, 2022
For nearly 12 weeks, Russia has waged its brutal and unprovoked war against Ukraine, its sovereignty, its territorial integrity and its people. Repulsed after its failed attempt to seize kyiv, Russia continues a brutal offensive in southern and eastern Ukraine. The courageous Ukrainian Defense Forces remain firmly committed to the fight. The United States, along with more than 40 allies and partners, is working around the clock to expedite deliveries of weapons and equipment critical to Ukraine’s defense.
Pursuant to a delegation from the President, I authorize our tenth drawdown of additional arms and equipment for the defense of Ukraine from US Department of Defense inventory, valued at up to $100 million. This brings total US military aid to Ukraine to around $3.9 billion in weapons and equipment since Russia launched its brutal, unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24.
U.S. and international military assistance continues to complement U.S. direct financial support to Ukraine, support for documenting evidence of Russian atrocities against the Ukrainian people, and measures to continue to increase pressure on Russia and its remaining enablers. Taken together, these efforts strengthen Ukraine’s position at the negotiating table while continuing to isolate Russia from the world until it ends its senseless and brutal war of choice against Ukraine. The United States is committed to helping Ukraine continue to meet its defense needs and build future capabilities, as well as supporting Allies and partners on NATO’s eastern flank and in the region at large.
The United States, our allies, and our partners are proud to stand with the Ukrainian people in their just cause: the defense of their country and their democracy. United with our allies and partners, we will succeed and a democratic, sovereign and independent Ukraine will prevail.
