(AURN News) — On Monday, the White House announced an additional $2.5 billion aid package to Ukraine, weeks before President Joe Biden is set to leave office and former President Donald Trump returns.

The package will provide $1.25 billion in drawdown assistance for the Ukrainian military and $1.22 billion for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI).

"I am proud to announce nearly $2.5 billion in security assistance for Ukraine, as the Ukrainian people continue to defend their independence and freedom from Russian aggression," Biden said in a statement.

Biden also emphasized America's ongoing support for Ukraine since Russia's invasion. "Since Russia launched its further assault against Ukraine in February 2022, the United States has rallied the world to stand with the Ukrainian people, and it has been a top priority of mine to provide Ukraine with the support it needs to prevail," he said.

The State Department reports that as of Dec. 12, U.S. assistance to Ukraine has exceeded $61 billion since Russia's February 2022 invasion. This figure excludes aid provided after December 12 of this year and the newly announced $2.5 billion package.

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