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During a summit focused on a resolution to end the war in Ukraine, Vice President Kamala Harris announced a new $1.5 billion aid package for Ukraine.
While meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Vice President Harris said, “This war remains an utter failure for [Russian President Vladimir] Putin. I am here in Switzerland to stand with Ukraine and the leaders from around the world in support of a just and lasting peace. As we look forward to that peace and work toward that, the United States is committed to helping Ukraine rebuild.”
What’s in the package:
The new aid package includes $500 million for energy assistance, addressing continuous Russian strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy sector. Additionally, $324 million from previously announced funds will support repairing the nation’s energy infrastructure.
According to the White House press release, $379 million is designated for humanitarian aid from the US Agency for International Development and the State Department to meet the urgent needs of refugees, internally displaced persons, and communities affected by the conflict. Humanitarian aid will encompass food assistance, health services, shelter, water, sanitation, hygiene services, psychological support, and other essential aid to help families restore income and meet basic needs. The aid package also includes support for security through the State Department, assisting Ukrainian border guards and law enforcement in defending Ukraine’s territory.
This announcement came after a meeting between Harris and Zelensky, where the vice president reaffirmed the United States “unwavering support” for Ukraine despite previous delays in aid delivery caused by Congressional issues earlier this year.
The summit follows Ukraine’s rejection of a Russian cease-fire proposal that demanded territorial concessions and the abandonment of Ukraine’s NATO ambitions. Ukrainian officials labeled the plan as “absurd” and accused Putin of seeking to perpetuate aggression in Europe. The peace summit notably excluded Russia at Ukraine’s insistence, though the Swiss emphasized the necessity of Russian involvement for lasting peace.
