United States National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan unexpectedly visited Kyiv on Friday as Iran’s involvement in the Russian offensive grew.
According to National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson, Sullivan met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his chief of staff Andrey Yermak while on his first visit to Ukraine since the war broke out eight months ago.
Sullivan shared details about a new US security aid package announced on Friday, and “reaffirmed the continued provision of economic and humanitarian aid, as well as ongoing efforts with partners to hold Russia accountable for its aggression.” Confirmed,” Watson said.
Soviet-era refurbished T-72 tanks, HAWK air defense missiles, and additional “Phoenix Ghost” drones that have been used against the Russian military in the past are all included in the $400 million package the US is offering Kyiv . Since the invasion of Russia, the US has provided more than $18.2 billion in security aid to Ukraine.
“As we move forward, there will be no hesitation, no hesitation in supporting us,” Sullivan told reporters in Ukraine.
Yermak said Ukraine Friday received a confirmation of “unwavering support for our victory: our friends and comrades are with us, they fully understand our position.”
Zelensky met on Thursday with Democratic Senator Chris Koons of Delaware and Republican Senator Rob Portman of Ohio, who are both members of the Committee on Foreign Relations. Zelensky has urged allies to provide more advanced weapons and air defense systems.
US officials have urged Iran to stop providing drones to Russia from Tehran due to growing concerns over Russia’s involvement.
White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said last week: “The evidence that Iran is helping Russia to wage a war against Ukraine is clear and it is public.”
Russia is using drones from Iran to attack Ukraine’s infrastructure, including power supplies.
G-7 nations has decided to formally coordinate assistance in the repair, restoration and protection of Ukraine’s water and energy infrastructure.
Tensions with Washington have risen as a result of Iran’s repressive measures against protests in the country for more than a month since the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody.
President Joe Biden said Thursday night that Iran would be “free” soon, but did not say what he meant during an event in California.
As Biden was discussing his administration’s efforts to improve care for the elderly, he paused and said, “Don’t worry, we’re going to liberate Iran.” He quickly added: “They are going to free themselves very soon.”
(with inputs from Bloomberg)
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