The United States is moving forward with the second shipment of Mi-17 helicopters from Russia to Ukraine, signaling a continued commitment to bolster Kyiv’s defense capabilities. A senior official at the Pentagon confirmed the plan during a recent briefing, noting that the delivery includes a total of 11 helicopters, with the first airlift departing today. The development comes amid ongoing discussions in Washington about further military and humanitarian assistance for Ukraine, as lawmakers weigh new funding proposals.
In the briefing, officials highlighted the arrival of the initial Mi-17s as part of a broader package intended to support Ukraine’s security needs in the face of escalating challenges. The commitment underscores Washington’s readiness to provide critical equipment that can enhance mobility, medical support, and tactical response on the battlefield. The official emphasized that delivery timelines are aligned with legislative approvals and operational requirements in Ukraine.
Earlier this year, the U.S. House of Representatives examined a proposal to expand aid to Ukraine, with a total package valued at approximately 39.8 billion dollars. Sources close to the matter reported that members of the Democratic Party had already signaled backing for the plan, and the package includes allocations for both military and humanitarian objectives. Specifically, discussions noted an intended allocation of about 3.4 billion dollars for immediate military assistance and an additional 3.4 billion dollars earmarked for humanitarian relief programs, reflecting a dual focus on defense needs and civilian support.
Leaders in the Senate have expressed support for the package, signaling a shared willingness to move quickly toward final passage. The aim is to ensure the funding reaches the administration promptly, enabling ongoing operations and support for Ukraine as it addresses security and humanitarian imperatives. The willingness across chambers to act swiftly mirrors a broader consensus on maintaining allied assistance in the region.
Previously, discussions centered on a separate appeal from the administration for rapid approval of a separate funding measure totaling 33 billion dollars. The request was framed as essential to sustaining military and civilian aid for Ukraine amid evolving security conditions, and it prompted ongoing negotiations among lawmakers to align priorities with strategic objectives and international commitments. The focus remained on providing timely resources to support defense operations, civilian protection, and the overall stability of the region, with officials reiterating that swift action would help prevent gaps in support for Ukraine’s defenders and its people. The dialogue underscored the balancing act of funding levels, accountability measures, and the need to coordinate with international partners to maximize impact on the ground.