The United States has announced a substantial aid package valued at nearly $5.9 billion for Ukraine, solidifying its support for the war-torn nation amid ongoing conflicts with Russia. This funding surge comes as President Joe Biden aims to strengthen Ukraine's defenses before the upcoming transition to President-elect Donald Trump, whose approach to military aid remains uncertain ([Al Jazeera](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/30/us-president-biden-announces-2-5bn-military-aid-package-for-ukraine)).

President Biden's announcement includes:

• $2.5 billion in military assistance, which consists of $1.25 billion drawn from US military stocks and another $1.22 billion from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI).
• $3.4 billion in budget assistance aimed at supporting Ukraine's essential government functions amidst intensified Russian attacks on its infrastructure and civilian areas, as stated by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen

Yellen emphasized the critical nature of this economic aid, arguing that it is essential for Ukraine to maintain public services and operational governance while under siege ([USA Today](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2024/12/31/biden-ukraine-aid-yellen/77348604007/)). Since Russia's invasion commenced in February 2022, total US assistance to Ukraine has exceeded $175 billion, of which over $30 billion is specifically for budgetary support.

Biden stated, "At my direction, the United States will continue to work relentlessly to strengthen Ukraine’s position in this war over the remainder of my time in office," highlighting the administration's intent to push for continued support in the face of escalating military engagements by Russian forces ([SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3292801/weeks-trump-returns-us-sends-us59-billion-aid-ukraine)).

As Republican control of both chambers of Congress set to commence with Trump’s swearing-in, the future of US support remains in question. Trump has previously expressed skepticism toward ongoing military assistance, advocating instead for a strategic negotiation to end hostilities swiftly.

The latest package comes at a critical moment, with reports of Russian advancements in Eastern Ukraine and a precarious situation in frontline towns. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly acknowledged the importance of US support, stating that every act of solidarity strengthens Ukraine's resilience against aggression.

The developments signal a definitive moment for US foreign policy, as Biden's administration races to solidify commitment before the change in leadership, with both military and economic aid now a pivotal point of discussion as the new year approaches.

Yellen concluded by asserting, "Ukraine’s success is in America’s core national interest," reiterating the US commitment to sanction pressures on Moscow and supporting Ukraine’s autonomy amidst international scrutiny over aid distribution and effectiveness.