- The agreement is aimed at forcing future US governments to support Ukraine.
- G7 countries agree to grant a loan of $50 billion to Ukraine.
- The United States will help Ukraine expand the military and defense industry.
In an effort to strengthen Ukraine's defense against Russian invasion and move the country closer to NATO membership, US President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy signed a bilateral security agreement on Thursday. “historical” of 10 years duration.
According to sources, the agreement was reached on the sidelines of the G7 conference in Italy and is intended to force future US governments to support Ukraine, even if Republican candidate Donald Trump wins the November elections. Reuters reported.
During a joint press conference with Zelenskiy, Biden stated: “Our goal is to strengthen Ukraine's credible long-term defense and deterrence capabilities.”
He said the G7's message to Russian President Vladimir Putin is: “You can't wait for us to get out. You can't divide us.”
Additionally, the G7 countries also agreed to a $50 billion loan for Ukraine backed by proceeds from frozen Russian assets.
The U.S.-Ukraine security agreement has been hailed as historic by Zelensky, who said the deal is a framework for a long-term effort to help build up Ukraine's aging military and serve as a step toward eventual membership. of Ukraine in NATO.
Zelenskiy has long sought NATO membership, but the allies have stopped short of taking that step. The Western alliance considers any attack launched against one of its 32 members as an attack against all under its Article Five clause.
In the event of an armed attack or threat of such against Ukraine, senior U.S. and Ukrainian officials will meet within 24 hours to consult on a response and determine what additional defense needs are required for Ukraine, according to the agreement.
Under the agreement, the United States reaffirms its support for Ukraine's defense of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, amid a renewed push by Russia on Ukraine's eastern front.
It also outlines plans to develop Ukraine's own defense industry and expand its military.
