Biden Sends Another $2.5 Billion to Ukraine as Trump Prepares to Take Office

In a move that has sparked fresh controversy, President Joe Biden announced an additional $2.5 billion in military aid to Ukraine on Monday, less than a month before President-elect Donald Trump is set to assume office for his second term. Biden’s decision underscores his administration’s commitment to Ukraine but has drawn sharp criticism from conservatives questioning the escalating financial and military support.

The $2.5 billion aid comprises two main components:

• $1.25 billion in military assistance from the Defense Department.

• $1.22 billion from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.

The package includes a range of resources: air defense munitions, artillery shells, Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems munitions, rockets, missiles, and demolition equipment. Biden emphasized the urgency of the aid, stating, “I’ve directed my Administration to continue surging as much assistance to Ukraine as quickly as possible, including drawing down older U.S. equipment and replenishing our stockpiles with new weapons.”

This marks the latest in a series of aid announcements under Biden. Earlier this month, he approved $725 million in military and humanitarian aid, adding to the more than $183 billion the U.S. has committed to Ukraine since the war began in 2022.

Biden’s actions have ignited backlash from critics who argue the administration is prioritizing foreign conflicts over domestic issues. Trump has been particularly vocal, promising to negotiate a swift peace in Ukraine once he takes office.

Speaking to the New York Post, Trump revealed recent discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron. According to Trump, Zelensky is open to a cease-fire and “wants to make peace.” Trump criticized Biden’s approval of long-range missile strikes into Russia, calling it a “very stupid thing” that risks escalating the conflict.

“He thinks it’s time, and Putin should think it’s time because he’s lost when you lose 700,000 people, it’s time,” Trump said, referring to reported Russian casualties.

Under Biden, the U.S. Treasury has also committed $3.4 billion in budgetary support to Ukraine, intended to maintain critical government services. The ballooning costs of U.S. involvement have become a significant point of contention, with critics accusing the administration of reckless spending.

As Trump prepares to take office, his approach signals a stark departure from Biden’s policies. Trump has maintained that Russia would not have invaded Ukraine under his watch, placing the blame squarely on the Biden administration.

Biden’s final push to aid Ukraine cements his administration’s foreign policy stance but sets the stage for a major shift under Trump’s leadership. The question remains: will Trump’s promise of a quick resolution bring an end to the conflict, or will the damage already done continue to unfold?

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