US to unveil $500m military aid for Ukraine as defence leaders convene in Germany

The United States is poised to announce a $500 million military aid package for Ukraine on Thursday during the final meeting of President Joe Biden’s weapons pledging conferences, a crucial series of gatherings Kyiv has hailed as vital to its defense against Russia.

The Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG), formed in 2022 by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, consists of around 50 allies committed to accelerating and synchronizing arms deliveries to Ukraine.

The future of the UDCG remains uncertain, with President-elect Donald Trump set to take office on January 20. Advisors to Trump have suggested potential proposals that could see large portions of Ukraine ceded to Russia for the foreseeable future, raising questions about the group’s trajectory under a new administration.

Since the invasion by Russia, Washington has committed over $63.5 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, with the additional $500 million expected to be confirmed by the end of Wednesday. On Thursday, defense leaders will gather at Ramstein Air Base for the 25th UDCG meeting.

“We’re not sunsetting the group. The next administration is completely welcome and encouraged… to take the mantle of this 50-country strong group and continue to drive and lead through it,” said a senior US defense official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The official also expressed confidence that the UDCG would continue in some form, regardless of the priorities of the incoming administration. “It will endure in some capacity, in some form going forward, I believe, regardless of exactly how the next team does or doesn’t pursue it,” the official added.

As Trump prepares to assume office, he will have access to billions in appropriated funds that could be directed toward Ukraine’s military needs. Thursday’s meeting will also aim to endorse strategic roadmaps for Ukraine’s military objectives through 2027.

The conflict has resulted in over 12,300 civilian deaths since Russia’s invasion nearly three years ago, with casualties spiking due to drones, long-range missiles, and glide bombs, according to the United Nations. Meanwhile, Ukraine reported new offensive actions in Russia’s western Kursk region, where it has held territory for five months despite setbacks. The ongoing battles in the region mark an important moment for Ukraine, whose outnumbered forces are grappling with Russian advances in the east.