In the midst of Russia’s Donbas offensive, the US sends warplanes to Ukraine

*Paromita Das

Just days after US President Joe Biden announced a $800 million military aid package for Ukraine, the US announced that the country has received fighter planes and aircraft parts in the midst of Russia’s invasion.

The type and number of aircraft, however, have not been specified.

Ukraine now has “more fixed-wing fighter aircraft than they did two weeks ago,” according to the Pentagon, as the US and Europe announced that they would send more aid to Ukraine as it battles Russian forces.
As Russia announced its intention to concentrate its forces in the Donbas region, President Zelensky has been pleading for more warplanes and weapons.

As the US seeks to increase pressure on Russia, President Biden met with European leaders from Canada, Japan, and the European Commission.
The US announced on Tuesday that the first shipment of military equipment had arrived at Ukraine’s border, with reports indicating that NATO soldiers will be training Ukrainian troops on US howitzers.
Russia had previously complained to the US about its military assistance to Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia has issued an ultimatum to Ukraine to lay down its arms in Mariupol, which is said to be surrounded by Russian forces.

On Sunday, Russia ordered Ukraine to surrender in Mariupol, but President Zelensky refused, vowing to fight to the bitter end. Street fighting in the besieged town continues, according to the governor of Ukraine’s Donetsk region.

According to reports, Ukrainian forces have been holding out in some areas of Mariupol despite heavy bombardment by Putin’s forces, despite the fact that several civilians are believed to be trapped in the city.