During the Ukraine peace summit in Lucerne, Switzerland, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris revealed that the United States would be providing more than $1.5 billion in aid to Ukraine. This aid is primarily aimed at assisting Ukraine’s energy sector and addressing the humanitarian crisis that has arisen as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine over the past 27 months.
A substantial portion of the aid package, totaling $500 million, is allocated for energy assistance. Additionally, $324 million in previously announced funds will be redirected towards emergency energy infrastructure repair and other critical needs in Ukraine. These efforts are crucial in helping Ukraine respond to the recent attacks on its energy infrastructure by Russia and enhancing its ability to withstand energy supply disruptions.
In addition to the financial support for the energy sector, Vice President Harris also announced over $379 million in humanitarian assistance from the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development. This aid is intended to provide essential services such as food assistance, health services, shelter, and water, sanitation, and hygiene services to millions of Ukrainians affected by the conflict.
Vice President Harris’s presence at the Ukraine peace summit in Lucerne, Switzerland, symbolizes the United States’ commitment to supporting Ukraine during this challenging time. While President Joe Biden could not attend the event due to prior engagements, Harris took the opportunity to meet with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and address the summit’s plenary session on behalf of the United States.
President Biden has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to bolster Ukraine’s security and stability. From signing a U.S.-Ukraine bilateral security agreement at the G7 summit to participating in events commemorating historical milestones like the 80th anniversary of the World War Two D-Day invasion, the United States continues to demonstrate its unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of external threats.
Looking ahead, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan will represent the United States at the summit on Sunday and work on establishing working groups focused on returning Ukrainian children from Russia and enhancing energy security. These initiatives underscore the importance of ongoing collaboration and dialogue between the United States and Ukraine to address critical issues and promote mutual interests.