Washington: US President Joe Biden announced a major increase in military assistance to Ukraine on Thursday, pledging nearly $8 billion in aid, including new long-range munitions, ahead of a high-profile White House meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The new package comes as Ukraine continues its defense against Russia’s invasion, with escalating threats from Moscow, including updates to its nuclear weapons doctrine. The aid package includes $5.5 billion to be authorized by the end of the US fiscal year and $2.4 billion via the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which involves future weapons procurements. Additionally, the Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW) long-range munition will be supplied to enhance Ukraine’s strike capabilities.

"We are providing a surge in security assistance for Ukraine to help them win this war," Biden said. However, he did not grant Ukraine's request to launch US-made long-range missiles into Russian territory—an option Zelensky has been pressing for.

The meeting between Biden and Zelensky comes at a critical time, not only for Ukraine’s war efforts but also for US support, which could shift depending on the outcome of the upcoming US election. Republican candidate Donald Trump, a long-time critic of Ukraine aid, has questioned why the US continues to support Kyiv financially and accused Zelensky of avoiding peace talks with Moscow.

Zelensky, in his visit, also addressed the US Congress and delivered a defiant speech at the UN General Assembly, where he urged for continued international support. He has been touting a "victory plan" for ending the war, though specific details remain unclear.

The surge in aid underscores the Biden administration's commitment to Ukraine, but with Trump’s rhetoric gaining traction, there are concerns that US support could dwindle if he wins the presidency. Trump has criticized Zelensky, calling him “the greatest salesman on Earth” and claiming he could broker a peace deal within 24 hours if elected.

Biden also announced plans for a high-level meeting with Ukraine’s allies in Germany in October to coordinate efforts among the over 50 countries supporting Ukraine in its defense.