03.11.15

Durbin Applauds White House Announcement Of Increased Nonlethal Military Aid For Ukraine, Renews Call For Defensive Weapons

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement after President Obama approved increased funding and nonlethal military equipment for Ukraine:

“This is a good day for the Ukrainian people,” said Durbin. “A timely increase U.S. military aid is critical for Ukraine to defend its borders against brazen and violent Russian aggression in the east. I applaud President Obama for sending a strong signal both to the people of Ukraine as well as to the Kremlin. But more can and must be done for Ukraine, including defensive weapons as soon as possible.”

The President approved $75 million in funds to provide Ukraine with the following equipment:

 

  • Communications/Surveillance:   A variety of radios, other secure communications equipment, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to improve Ukraine's communications, command and control, and situational awareness. 
  • Enablers for Force Protection:  To include counter-mortar radars for warning and protection against mortar and artillery fire and night vision devices.
  • Medical:  First aid kits and other medical supplies, including military ambulances.

 

The President also approved the transfer of 30 armored and up to 200 unarmored Humvees for Ukraine.

 

Durbin has repeatedly called on the Administration to immediately increase military aid to Ukraine—both nonlethal and defensive weapons—and to work to tighten international sanctions against Russia. A copy of Durbin’s most recent letter is available HERE. The funds were first approved by Durbin for Fiscal Year 2015 while he was Chairman of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.