Biden and Zelensky: meeting in Washington
On September 26, 2024 there was an important meeting in the White House. President Biden received Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss the current situation in the war and further options for support. The conversation focused on recent developments on the battlefield and Ukraine’s military needs. Biden reaffirmed the US commitment to continue supporting Ukraine with weapons, equipment and financial resources. “Ukraine’s security is of global importance,” Biden said after the meeting.
$2.4 billion in new military aid
During the meeting, Biden announced another large military aid package. The USA is providing Ukraine with an additional $2.4 billion, primarily to strengthen its air defense. This assistance includes state-of-the-art air defense systems, unmanned drones and air-to-surface missiles. Particular emphasis was placed on the delivery of drone systems that would enable Ukraine to produce and maintain its own drones on a larger scale.
In addition, the remaining budget of the so-called “Presidential Directive,” which expired at the end of the fiscal year, was released. This allows the US government to provide an additional $5.55 billion for arms supplies. This gives Ukraine the tools it needs to maintain its military capabilities in the coming months and defend itself against ongoing Russian attacks.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky poses for a group photo with Scranton Army Ammunition Plant personnel who provide critical support to Ukraine’s defense efforts, Sept. 22, 2024.
Foto: Army Staff Sgt. Deonte Rowell
Intense fighting in eastern Ukraine
Despite extensive international support, the situation in Ukraine remains tense. Fighting continues, especially in the eastern Donetsk region and in the Russian border region of Kursk. Russian troops continue to employ a strategy of slow attrition and try to keep Ukrainian forces at bay. But Ukraine managed to fend off some Russian counterattacks and defend important terrain gains.
Particularly noteworthy are Ukraine’s recent drone attacks on Russian ammunition depots and fuel depots. These operations significantly impact Russian logistics and weaken Russia’s ability to resupply its troops.
No strategy changes in sight
Despite heavy losses on both sides, there are no signs that either warring party will fundamentally change its strategy. Russian troops continue to gradually conquer areas in eastern Ukraine, while the Ukrainian army is showing significant resilience both on the ground and in air defense. Ukraine will receive further support in the coming months to defend itself against continued Russian attacks, according to a Pentagon statement released after the meeting between Biden and Zelensky.
However, the future of the war remains uncertain. While Ukraine continues to receive support from its Western allies, Russia shows no signs of stopping its offensive. President Putin appears determined to continue the war, even though his troops are suffering heavy losses. Experts believe the war could last months or even years.
The US and allies remain resolute
Despite the difficult situation, international support for Ukraine remains unbroken. After their meeting, Biden and Zelensky emphasized that the United States and its allies will continue to stand firmly by Ukraine. “Support for Ukraine is a matter of global security,” Biden said, and Zelensky added: “We are fighting not only for our freedom, but for the freedom of the entire world.”
The US has provided more than $40 billion in military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine since the war began in February 2022. Further measures to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities are already being prepared as the world awaits a resolution to the conflict.
