The United States has approved a $2.68‑billion air‑defence package for Ukraine, a major boost to Kyiv’s efforts to counter an escalating wave of Russian missile and drone attacks on cities and critical infrastructure. The approval, issued through a congressional notification from the US State Department, underscores Washington’s continued military support as Ukraine faces mounting shortages of air‑defence ammunition.
The proposed package includes a wide range of systems: missiles, launchers, counter‑drone radars, trailers, and other equipment designed to strengthen Ukraine’s layered air‑defence network. According to the State Department, the deal also covers air‑defence development upgrades and related services requested by Kyiv.
If the purchase proceeds, Ukraine will fund it through a mix of European contributions and US Foreign Military Financing (FMF) approved during the Joe Biden administration. The announcement comes amid renewed debate within the Trump administration over the cost and scope of US military assistance to Ukraine.
The approval also follows President Donald Trump’s claim that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to stop attacking each other’s energy infrastructure — a claim neither Kyiv nor Moscow has confirmed. Trump criticised Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries, saying Ukraine could continue targeting military sites but should avoid energy facilities. Meanwhile, Ukraine has increasingly used long‑range drones to hit Russian infrastructure deep inside its territory, including oil depots, while Russia continues heavy bombardment of Ukrainian cities.