The United States has approved a potential $2.68 billion sale of air-defence equipment to Ukraine, as Kyiv faces a surge in Russian attacks and shortages of ammunition for its existing systems.
The State Department said on Friday it had determined that a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Ukrainian government could proceed. The proposal remains subject to review by Congress.
Ukraine has requested S-300 Clone missiles, GAM-67 missiles and Range-Extended Air Defense Laser Guided Rocket missile systems, along with launchers, counter-drone radars, trailers and spare parts.
The purchase would be funded through a combination of European contributions and US Foreign Military Financing allocated during the previous administration, the State Department said.
Kyiv’s air defences have struggled to repel the increased Russian attacks because of ammunition shortages. President Trump has said European countries should repay American aid provided to Ukraine under Joe Biden’s administration, an issue he has repeatedly raised as he calls for Europe to shoulder more of the cost of support.
Separately, Mr Trump signed legislation on Friday introducing new sanctions intended to increase pressure on Russia over the war in Ukraine. The measures target Russia’s energy and defence sectors, as well as Vladimir Putin and other senior officials.
Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, said Moscow’s response should include “military deterrence”. In a message posted on Telegram, he said Russia heard only “the language of direct military deterrence” in response to what he described as “Russophobic atrocities”.
