The new security assistance package includes refurbished T-72 tanks, the first time the US has sent tanks to Ukraine, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles and the refurbishment of 250 HAWK surface-to-air missiles for possible transfer to Ukraine. in the White House. Sullivan visited Zelensky to “underline the steadfast support of the United States to Ukraine and its people as they defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the White House said. “He also reaffirmed the continued provision of economic and humanitarian assistance, as well as ongoing efforts with partners to hold Russia accountable for its aggression.” Along with Zelensky, Sullivan met with Chief of Staff of the President Andriy Yermak, Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov and others. Earlier this week, Sens. Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Rob Portman (R-Ohio) also traveled to Kyiv to meet with Zelensky to bolster bipartisan support for the country ahead of the midterm elections. Biden Says He’ll Talk Directly With Oil Companies Soon Over High Gas Prices Don’t Lick Poisonous Toad, National Park Service Warns Their visit came amid concern that both Republicans and Democrats are divided over US support for Ukraine, after some lawmakers in both parties increased their criticism of the billions in military and economic aid the US has sent. House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) recently said a GOP-controlled House would not write a “blank check” on Ukraine, and progressive House Democrats last month released and then withdrew a letter that called on Biden to prioritize negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. The US has provided more than $18 billion in security assistance and $1.5 billion in humanitarian and economic aid to Ukraine since the Russian invasion began in February.
