According to multiple sources familiar with the matter who spoke to CNN, the Biden administration is finalizing a new aid package for Ukraine, estimated to be worth approximately $1 billion.
The Senate approved the legislation on Tuesday night, paving the way for President Biden to sign it, possibly as early as Wednesday.
In recent briefings to Congress, administration officials have hinted that the aid package may include long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) for Ukraine, marking the first time such systems would be sent. Last year, Ukraine received the midrange variant of the ATACMS, capable of reaching around 100 miles. The new package is expected to include the longer-range version, reaching up to 190 miles.
Ukrainian officials have been pressing the U.S. for these long-range missiles, both privately and publicly, to target deeper into Russian-held territories. While American officials initially hesitated, citing concerns about supplies and potential escalation with Moscow, the dire situation on the Ukrainian battlefield spurred a reassessment.
CIA Director Bill Burns warned earlier this month that without U.S. support, Ukraine could face defeat by the end of the year. Additionally, Gen. Chris Cavoli, the top U.S. general for Europe, testified that Russian artillery capabilities vastly outmatch Ukraine's, posing a significant challenge. NATO officials have echoed these concerns, highlighting Russia's superiority in munitions, manpower, and equipment.
Senator Mark Warner emphasized the urgency of sending ATACMS missiles to Ukraine, stating that it should have happened months ago. He hopes for swift action once the legislation reaches the President's desk.
In addition to the ATACMS missiles, the aid package is expected to include crucial munitions such as air defense and artillery ammunition, as well as military vehicles and demolition weaponry.
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The legislation mandates the swift transfer of the long-range ATACMS, unless the President deems it detrimental to U.S. national security interests.
The military aid will be drawn from U.S. stockpiles using presidential drawdown authority, a funding mechanism. This aid package, the first of its kind since March, will be substantially larger than previous ones, reflecting the increased urgency of the situation.
While the White House declined to comment on the specifics of the aid package, it affirmed its readiness to rapidly deploy military assistance to Ukraine once the supplemental funding is approved.
Efforts are underway to expedite the processing and delivery of weaponry to Ukraine through U.S. European Command.
Assistant Secretary of Defense Celeste Wallander informed lawmakers that the Pentagon could initiate the aid transfer within a week or two of the legislation's passage.
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