Kathmandu: The U.S. Department of State has approved a $3.1 billion aid package for Ukraine, aimed at training, maintaining, and supporting its fighter jet capabilities, according to a Pentagon announcement. The package will fund aircraft modifications, pilot training, ground support systems, and technical maintenance, though it does not include any new aircraft.

Instead, fighter jets will be provided by European allies — including the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and Belgium — who have so far pledged 19 jets to Ukraine. The aircraft will be delivered gradually through 2025.

American defense contractors are leading the technical support and training components. The U.S. is also repurposing older aircraft components from storage facilities such as Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona, where decommissioned planes are held. These components will be used for spare parts, as the planes stored there lack vital systems such as engines and radar.

This move builds on a $2.66 billion aid package approved in December 2024, which included mission planning systems and maintenance equipment.

New U.S.-Ukraine Minerals Deal Signed After Delay
In a separate development, Ukraine and the United States have signed a minerals agreement, marking a shift in U.S. support strategy under the administration of President Donald Trump. The deal was signed after a two-month delay and focuses on Ukraine’s rare earth elements, which are critical for modern technology and defense systems.

Despite initial demands by President Trump for direct rights to Ukraine’s mineral wealth as compensation for previous military aid, Ukraine secured full sovereignty over its resources during extended negotiations.