Biden ramps up Ukraine support with new sanctions, military aid ahead of Trump’s presidency

Reuters reports.

President Joe Biden plans to announce new economic sanctions against Russia this week and provide $500 million in military aid to Ukraine, including air defense systems, munitions, and F-16 support equipment. These actions aim to strengthen Ukraine's position against Moscow as Biden prepares to leave office.  

President-elect Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration has raised concerns in Kyiv about potential peace deals that could cede Ukrainian territory to Russia. Biden's administration is working to bolster Ukraine’s battlefield leverage for future negotiations.  

Details of the new sanctions remain unclear, but Biden’s team is coordinating with Trump’s incoming administration. Most of the promised weapons and munitions for Ukraine have been delivered, significantly improving its critical stockpiles. However, U.S. officials acknowledge that weapons like Abrams tanks and ATACMS missiles have not brought decisive gains.  

As peace talks loom, Ukraine may need long-term security guarantees, possibly including NATO membership, to deter future Russian aggression. Additionally, the U.S. is likely to sanction more Chinese entities supporting Russia and continues to target Russia's oil revenue. U.S. officials are also studying North Korea's involvement in the war, as thousands of its forces reportedly back Russia.