President Joe Biden has pledged to continue strengthening U.S. military support for Ukraine in the final months of his administration, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed Wednesday.
The announcement follows a sophisticated Russian missile and drone strike on Kyiv, marking the first such attack on the Ukrainian capital in 73 days. “We will continue to shore up everything we’re doing for Ukraine to make sure that it can effectively defend itself against this Russian aggression,” Blinken told reporters at NATO headquarters in Brussels, prior to meetings with allied envoys and Ukrainian officials.
The U.S. has long been the largest provider of military assistance to Ukraine, and Blinken’s comments underline Washington’s unwavering commitment to the country’s defense.
This continued support comes amid intensifying Russian attacks, particularly in Kyiv. President Volodymyr Zelensky has underscored the importance of maintaining Ukraine’s resistance, despite the mounting toll of the conflict.
Zelensky has also stressed that Russia is attempting to wear down Ukrainian resolve through a campaign of terror, particularly targeting civilian infrastructure.
Virginia Mayo/AP Photo
North Korean Troops in Ukraine
Blinken also addressed the growing involvement of North Korea, with the Pentagon estimating that up to 12,000 North Korean troops have joined Russian forces in Ukraine.
This development has prompted U.S. officials to issue a stern warning, with Blinken stating that North Korea’s actions “demand and will get a firm response,” though he did not provide further details.
The North Korean troops are expected to be deployed in Russia’s Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces have made significant territorial gains. Their involvement adds another layer of complexity to the conflict.
Russia Steps Up Attacks on Kyiv
The Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv signals a renewed escalation in the war. Ukrainian authorities, including Zelensky, have warned that Russia is intensifying its strikes, aiming to destabilize Ukraine and weaken its people’s resolve. The attacks target essential services and infrastructure.
Despite the heavy toll, Zelensky has vowed to keep fighting, with Ukrainian forces preparing for continued resistance. The government in Kyiv has remained steadfast in its position, determined to repel Russian advances and defend its sovereignty.
Virginia Mayo/AP Photo
Uncertainty Over Future U.S. Policy Toward Ukraine
As the war enters its next phase, uncertainty hangs over the future of U.S. involvement. With President-elect Donald Trump due to take office in January, his stance on Ukraine has raised concerns among allies.
Trump has criticized Biden’s military aid to Ukraine, promising to end the conflict quickly if elected. Critics warn that a rushed settlement could favor Russian President Vladimir Putin.
This uncertainty about U.S. policy has added a new dimension to the ongoing conflict, with Ukraine’s international supporters wary of potential shifts in American strategy.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press