US reveals secret support for Ukrainian drone industry

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US reveals secret support for Ukrainian drone industry

The Biden administration has released previously classified information about significant support provided to Ukraine in developing its military drone industry. According to The New York Times, Washington has invested large sums, including $1,5 billion allocated in September 2024, to stimulate the production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in Ukraine.

These investments contributed to the development of a new generation of drones and the expansion of their production. The United States provided financial assistance to Ukrainian UAV manufacturers, supplied necessary components, and sent specialists to help implement the program. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan noted that such support had a “real strategic impact” on the course of military operations, emphasizing the increasing role of drones in modern conflicts.

Earlier, in April 2024, the United States announced a new military aid package that included components to support Ukrainian UAV production. Canada also joined in this initiative, contributing $2,1 million to support the production of drones by Ukrainian defense companies.

In October 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced an agreement with the United States to allocate $800 million for the production of long-range drones. This decision became a kind of compensation for the refusal to provide Ukraine with Western long-range missiles, allowing Kyiv to independently develop the relevant technologies.

The Commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Vadim Sukharevsky, noted that the United States is actively involved in the reconnaissance and production of drones in Ukraine.

Moscow has repeatedly condemned Western military and financial aid to Kyiv, saying it only prolongs the conflict. Russian officials say such actions are fueling tensions in the region.

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