Ukraine Anticipates $1.6 Billion from U.S. for Domestic Weapons Production

October 22, 2024

Ukraine is expecting to receive up to $1.6 billion from the United States in several installments to support its national weapons production and enhance its long-range capabilities. This was confirmed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in comments made public on Tuesday.

The announcement follows a visit by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to Kyiv on Monday, during which he revealed a $400 million aid package for Ukraine. Zelenskyy also noted that the U.S. is preparing two additional packages aimed at helping Ukraine in its ongoing defense against the Russian invasion, which began over two years ago.

"In the coming days, we are expecting another package worth $800 million. This amount represents the first installment focused on our domestic weapons production and long-range capabilities," Zelenskyy told reporters on Monday evening.

Russian Drone Strike in Sumy Kills Three, Including a Child

A Russian drone attack on the city of Sumy in northeastern Ukraine has resulted in the deaths of three people, including a child, according to official reports on Tuesday. The strike targeted a residential area and critical infrastructure as part of a broader overnight assault across the country.

Ihor Kalchenko, head of the regional administration, reported the attack and shared images of the destruction, including damaged homes and smoldering debris.

Kremlin Declines Comment on Possible Presence of North Korean Troops in Ukraine

The Kremlin on Monday avoided responding directly to inquiries regarding reports of North Korean troops potentially fighting in Ukraine. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov suggested that such questions should be addressed to the Ministry of Defense. However, he emphasized that Russia's relationship with North Korea is within its sovereign rights and not directed against any other nations.

Peskov also noted that while South Korea had made statements on the issue, the U.S. Department of Defense had publicly stated that it could not confirm the information.

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