Ukraine can breathe a sigh of relief with the new military aid from the USA, which will alleviate some problems and enable long-range counterattacks. However, serious weak points still remain. The aid package worth $61 billion is expected to be approved by the US Senate soon, providing much-needed support to the war-torn country.
The delay in approving the funding has cost Ukraine territory that could have been held with better supplies. The new aid will allow for immediate delivery of much-needed ammunition, especially 155 millimeter caliber shells for howitzers and precision ammunition for rocket launchers. This will help in stabilizing the front lines and defending against Russian advances, particularly in artillery warfare.
The Biden administration has been given flexibility in how to use the funds but specific orders have been given for the delivery of long-range Atacms missiles to Ukraine. This will enhance Ukraine’s ability to target strategic locations, including the Crimean peninsula. The additional funds extend until 2025, aiming to halt Russian advances and provide better protection against air attacks.
Despite the much-needed military aid, Ukraine still faces challenges in mobilizing enough soldiers for the front and providing them with thorough military training. The support from the US and NATO can help in this aspect, but capacity for training courses needs to be expanded. The former Ukrainian officer Tatarigami advises a sober assessment of the situation, warning that unless arms production is significantly boosted by 2025, Ukraine could face a critical situation similar to the one in recent months.
The recent approval of the aid package highlights the fragility of US support for Ukraine, especially under a potential Trump presidency. This underscores the importance of Ukraine seeking partnerships and using its own initiative to navigate through the conflict. While the aid provides much-needed relief
