The United States announced a new military aid package for Ukraine

International Desk: The United States on Friday announced a $2.1 billion military aid package for Ukraine. It is believed that Kiev is about to launch its long-awaited counter-offensive to drive Russia out of the country. Patriot air defense system, artillery rounds, drones and laser-guided rocket systems are included in this weapons package.

The Pentagon said in a statement that the new weapons were "announced as part of a continued commitment to the short-term ability to urgently defend Ukrainian territory, as well as the enduring capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the long-term deterrence of Russian aggression." Since the beginning of 2021, the United States has supplied Ukraine with military weapons valued at $40.4 billion. Most of these were given after Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Russian President Putin announced a counteroffensive on Friday amid reports that Ukrainian troops had launched an offensive along a long front at three key points. Source: Bass