In February 2022, Russian invasion left Ukrainian troops scrambling for ammo. The US stepped in to support Kyiv against Russia with a new arsenal. Here’s how the US leveraged alliances to aid Ukraine in the ongoing conflict.
As Russian supplies dwindled, the US sought help from allies and non-NATO countries, forming the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. This novel approach to building alliances showcased the US commitment to supporting Ukraine and countering Russia’s influence.
The group, now consisting of at least 53 countries, meets monthly to address Ukraine’s urgent needs. The US pushed for a global effort to arm Ukraine, showcasing a new type of alliance aimed at bolstering Ukrainian defenses and countering Russian aggression.
The conversion of Ukraine to NATO weaponry showcased the shift away from Russian arms. Many former Soviet-aligned nations have joined the contact group, highlighting the US strategy of leveraging partnerships to aid Ukraine.
Lessons learned from past coalition efforts, like the fight against ISIS, informed the formation of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. This coalition has provided Ukraine with over $126 billion in military aid and hardware, showcasing the power of global alliances in supporting Ukraine’s defense.
As the conflict continues, the US and its partners remain committed to aiding Ukraine. Efforts to secure arms and support for Ukraine are ongoing, with plans in place to ensure Ukraine’s defense even without US leadership in the future.