US announces new $200 million military aid package for Ukraine

According to the US Department of Defense, the capabilities in this package, valued at up to $200 million, include:

1.           AIM-9M missiles for air defense; 
2.           Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (c-UAS) equipment;
3.           Additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS);
4.           155mm and 105mm artillery rounds;
5.           Precision aerial munitions;
6.           Electronic warfare equipment;
7.           Tube-Launched, Optically-Tracked, Wire-Guided (TOW) missiles;
8.           AT-4 anti-armor systems;
9.           Small arms and more than 16 million rounds of small arms ammunition;
10.        Demolitions munitions for obstacle clearing; and
11.        Spare parts, training munitions, maintenance, and other field equipment.

Earlier, the Pentagon chief announced the aid package and said that it would include AIM-9M missiles and advanced air defense systems to be delivered to Ukraine. The assistance also encompasses artillery, missiles, anti-aircraft ammunition, anti-tank weapons, and equipment necessary to counter Russian drones.

During this winter, the Contact Group faces a dual mission: continuing support for Ukraine in addressing immediate challenges and enhancing Ukraine's capabilities against future threats. 

Priority is given to ensuring Ukraine's air defense and ammunition needs. This new aid brings the total U.S. assistance to Ukraine to $43.9 billion since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Secretary Austin introduced the concept of "capability coalitions" as the next step in the long-term strategy. These coalitions will facilitate coordination among member countries for various major capability areas.

While successful coalitions have already been formed for Leopard tanks and F-16 training, the plan is to expand this approach to broader capabilities, moving beyond specific platforms, according to Austin. 

The goal is to encourage member countries to collaborate in areas where increased support would enhance Ukraine's overall strength. 

This includes intensifying training for the Ukrainian military within NATO countries. The request is for countries to form coalitions that focus on more comprehensive capabilities, not just specific platforms, as stated by the Pentagon Chief. 

• It's worth noting that US senators from both parties are currently working on an annual aid package for Ukraine, with proposals ranging from $60 to $100 billion