Biden Announces $800M in Military Aid to Ukraine, Including Long-Range Missiles, Drones

The aid package brings US assistance to Ukraine to more than $1 billion.

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Dan Avery
Joe Biden

President Joe Biden.

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President Joe Biden announced on Wednesday an additional $800 million in military assistance to Ukraine, as the country continues to defend itself from Russian invasion.

This story is part of War in Ukraine, CNET's coverage of events there and of the wider effects on the world.

The package includes more of the defensive weapons the US has already provided, including Javelin anti-tank and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, according to the White House, as well as anti-armor systems; drones; grenade launchers; guns and ammunition; and body armor and helmets.
It doesn't, however, include fighter jets or other help in creating the no-fly zone Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for earlier Wednesday when he spoke to Congress remotely.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a virtual address to Congress on Wednesday.

 Screenshot by Dan Avery/CNET

"To create a no-fly zone over Ukraine to save people, is this too much to ask?" Zelenskyy asked lawmakers. "You know how much depends on the battlefield, on the ability to use aircraft, powerful strong aviation to protect our people, our freedom, our land, aircraft that can help Ukraine, help Europe." 

You know they exist and you have them," he added, "but they are on Earth not in the Ukrainian sky. I need to protect our sky."

Western leaders have opposed a no-fly zone because of concerns it could lead to a larger war with Russia. 
An omnibus bill passed by Congress last week pledges approximately $13.6 billion to Ukraine, with half earmarked for military aid and half for humanitarian and economic assistance.