The State Department has approved a $322 million proposal for weapons sales to Ukraine, aimed at enhancing its air defense capabilities and providing armored combat vehicles.

These sales, which have been notified to Congress, include a $150 million allocation for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of US-made armored vehicles, as well as $172 million dedicated to surface-to-air missile systems.

This approval comes in the wake of escalating Russian attacks on Ukraine, underscoring the ongoing need for military support from Western allies.

The decision marks a significant contribution to Ukraine's defense efforts amidst the prolonged conflict that began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Since then, the United States has provided over $67 billion in weapons and security assistance to Kyiv.

The proposed sales also reflect an evolving strategy in Washington regarding the transfer of military equipment to Ukraine.

Recently, President Donald Trump endorsed a plan for European allies to purchase US military equipment that could later be transferred to Ukraine, aiming to bolster its defenses through an indirect supply chain.

This latest approval by the State Department follows a period of internal deliberation within the Trump administration and on Capitol Hill regarding the provision of military aid to Ukraine.

The debate has been influenced by political pressure from isolationist factions advocating for a reduction in US funding of foreign wars.

Despite these discussions, the United States continues to press its allies to provide air defense systems to Ukraine, although many countries, particularly those in Eastern Europe, remain hesitant due to their own concerns regarding Russian aggression.