In a significant move to bolster Ukraine amid ongoing conflict, Vice President Kamala Harris has announced a substantial aid package valued at over $1.5 billion. The announcement, made today during the Summit for Peace in Ukraine, delineates a multifaceted approach to support the Ukrainian energy sector, address humanitarian needs, and enhance civilian security in the face of continued Russian aggression. The White House confirms these new measures in a detailed release.
The Vice President's statement indicates a new allocation of $500 million from USAID dedicated to energy assistance, along with a redirection of $324 million in emergency funding to immediately begin to effectively repair damaged Ukrainian energy infrastructure, encourage private investment, and protect energy networks. Aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s resilience to disruptions and preparing for long-term recovery, the planned aid addresses the nation's depleting energy resources due to the ongoing war.
Humanitarian assistance is also a primary focus of the new aid, with more than $379 million being provided to support the pressing requirements of refugees, internally displaced people, and communities affected by the war. This support will bring critical food, health services, and shelter, through State and USAID, to millions of vulnerable Ukrainians. Essential services such as clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, along with protective measures including psychosocial support, are part of the comprehensive aid plan outlined by the Vice President.
Harris further shared plans, in collaboration with Congress, to offer an additional $300 million specifically for civilian security needs. This significant sum is to directly enhance the capabilities of Ukrainian border guards and law enforcement agencies, arming them with lifesaving equipment. These funds will assist frontline defenders not only in safeguarding Ukrainian territories but also in rescuing civilians and investigating war crimes—a grim tally that currently exceeds 120,000 registered cases, according to The White House.
The recent contribution by the U.S. is part of a broader foreign aid initiative championed by President Joe Biden in response to Russia’s unyielding attacks, which have wrought death, displacement, and deprivation of essential utilities to countless Ukrainians. Despite these adversities, Ukrainian resistance remains unabated both militarily and civilly. In total, since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, the United States has committed more than $3.2 billion in humanitarian funds and nearly $1.5 billion for Ukraine's energy sector recovery and strengthening efforts.
