Trump's victory in November's election has put the future of US support for Ukraine in doubt, providing a limited window for the billions of dollars in aid already authorised before he is sworn in next month.
The Dec. 30 aid includes a $1.25 billion military "drawdown package" that allows the Pentagon to take weapons from U.S. stockpiles and send them quickly to the battlefield.
An additional $1.22 billion will be funded under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, under which military equipment is purchased from the defense industry or partners.
"Today, I am proud to announce nearly $2.5 billion in security assistance to Ukraine as the Ukrainian people continue to defend their independence and freedom from Russian aggression," said President Joe Biden.
According to the U.S. State Department, the cuts from Defense Department shelves will include drones, High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) munitions, optically guided missiles, anti-tank weapon systems, air-to-ground munitions and spare parts.
"The United States and more than 50 countries are united to ensure that Ukraine has the capabilities necessary to defend itself from Russian aggression," said Secretary of State Anthony Blinken.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov welcomed the new aid package in a social media post.
"The United States is a key ally of Ukraine, providing us with invaluable assistance. Together we will win!" he wrote.
The latest aid to Ukraine follows a nearly $1 billion tranche announced earlier this month for drones, ammunition and equipment.
The outgoing Biden administration is working to get as much aid to Ukraine as possible before Trump - who has repeatedly criticized U.S. aid to Kiev and has claimed he could secure a ceasefire within hours - takes office in January. | BGNES
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