Amid money shortages, US hopes other allies will support Ukraine at Ramstein

AP reports.

While awaiting Congressional approval for additional funds to support Ukraine's fight, the U.S. is relying on its allies to help bridge the current gap. The upcoming meeting on Tuesday will primarily address longer-term needs, according to deputy Pentagon press secretary Sabrina Singh.

Despite the temporary inability to offer security assistance, Singh emphasized that U.S. partners are actively continuing their support. The virtual nature of the meeting is attributed to Secretary Austin's ongoing recovery from complications related to prostate cancer treatment.

The last security assistance package for Ukraine, totaling $250 million, was announced by the Pentagon on December 27. It included 155 mm rounds, Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, and other essential items from existing U.S. stockpiles. However, since then, the U.S. has been unable to provide additional munitions due to the depletion of funds for replenishing stockpiles, pending Congressional approval for more funding.

Disagreements between Congress and the White House on various policy priorities, including additional security for the U.S.-Mexico border, have stalled over $110 billion in aid for both Ukraine and Israel. While Russia remains unwilling to end the war in Ukraine, the United Nations ruled out any peace plan backed by Kyiv and the West.

Despite the financial constraints, the U.S. has already provided over $44.2 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since Russia's invasion in February 2022. While some funds have run out, previously purchased weapons are still expected to be delivered. Additionally, the U.S. and around 30 international partners continue to train Ukrainian forces, having trained a total of 118,000 Ukrainians worldwide. The U.S. alone has trained approximately 18,000 fighters, with an additional 1,500 currently undergoing training.