June 17, 2024 – President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have signed a 10-year bilateral security pact aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities and deterring future aggression.
“Our goal is to strengthen Ukraine’s credible defense and deterrence capability for the long term,” Biden remarked following the signing. “A lasting peace for Ukraine must be underwritten by Ukraine’s own ability to defend itself now, and to deter future aggression anytime in the future. The U.S. is going to help ensure Ukraine can do both.”
The agreement outlines a comprehensive plan for the next decade, focusing on building and maintaining Ukraine’s defense and deterrence capabilities, enhancing its capacity for sustained defense, accelerating Euro-Atlantic integration, and consulting in the event of future Russian aggression.
Biden emphasized that the pact also reflects a shared vision for a “just peace,” grounded in the U.N. charter and principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. “A peace with a broad basis for it around the world that holds Russia accountable for the damage it has done in this war,” he added.
In addition to the security pact, Biden highlighted a recent G7 achievement in unlocking $50 billion from the $280 billion in frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. “This is a reminder to Putin that we’re not backing down,” Biden said. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan explained that these funds are crucial for Ukraine, especially as Russia continues its attempts to devastate Ukraine’s energy grid and economy.
Furthermore, Biden announced that the G7 has agreed on a third major step: sanctioning countries aiding Russia’s war efforts. “Collectively, this is a powerful set of actions, and it will create a stronger foundation for Ukraine’s success,” Biden stated.
The G7 summit, held in Italy’s Puglia region, continues through Saturday, with global leaders discussing additional measures to support Ukraine and maintain international security.–By Matthew Olay