US confident in supporting Ukraine and Israel simultaneously - NATO Ambassador
Photo: Ambassador Julianne Smith, Permanent Representative of the United States to NATO (facebook.com Julianne Smith)
Ambassador Julianne Smith, Permanent Representative of the United States to NATO, during an online briefing for journalists stated that the United States feels comfortable fulfilling its commitments to allies. In many cases, these are different aid systems from those in the US.
During the briefing, an RBC-Ukraine journalist asked Smith whether the US could assist both Ukraine and Israel simultaneously in the event of a major war in the Middle East.
According to her, the US currently feels comfortable adhering to its commitments to allies and partners both in the Middle East and to Ukraine. Additionally, the US continues to meet its obligations in other parts of the world, including the Indo-Pacific region.
"These are, in many cases, different types of systems that are being provided, using sometimes different forms of assistance in the US government," Smith said.
She also noted that there are no officials in Washington who view US aid as a "zero-sum effort in any way, shape, or form."
"We do believe with the great contributions that we have seen from so many nations around the world for Ukraine that together we can continue to get them what they need while also ensuring that we can defend Israel at the same time," she emphasized.
US aid to allies
The US provides substantial military and economic assistance to both Ukraine and Israel in response to conflicts in both regions. Both countries are strategic partners of the US, which drives ongoing support in the face of military threats.
Aid to Ukraine
Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, the US has allocated billions of dollars in assistance to Ukraine. This support includes the supply of weapons (such as air defense systems, artillery, and HIMARS), armored vehicles, and intelligence data. The US also assists with the training of Ukrainian military personnel.
Financial support helps stabilize Ukraine’s economy and ensures humanitarian aid for its civilian population.
Aid to Israel
Israel receives long-term military assistance from the US, including air defense systems (such as the Iron Dome), as well as aviation, ammunition, and technological equipment.
Following the escalation of the conflict in October 2023, the US additionally deployed THAAD and Patriot air defense systems to Israel to protect against missile attacks.
