US President Joe Biden said at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi that the United States does not consider the transfer of the Patriot air defense system to Ukraine an escalation.
"I did not discuss this (escalation of the war due to the transfer of the Patriot air defense system - ed.) with the president (Zelenskyi - ed.). This is a defensive weapon. This is not an escalation, this is defense. If the attacks stop, they will not use them," Biden emphasized.
Biden also added that Ukraine won the battles for Kyiv, Kherson, and Kharkiv. Russia has not fulfilled any of its hopes.
"Mr. Zelenskyi, you know that Putin has no intention of ending the war against Ukraine. The US government is ready to support Ukraine as long as it is needed. We will soon sign a law on 45 billion for additional funding. I also signed an authorization for the purchase of critical weapons for Ukraine and to strengthen national security Today I am announcing the next tranche of $1.85 billion These are direct transfers and contracts for the supply of ammunition and weapons, in particular, tanks, MRLS, the package will also include the Patriot system and the Ukrainian military will be trained to use it to support Ukraine's air defense. It will take time, but it will be a strength for Ukraine. In addition, we will direct $2.2 billion to humanitarian support," Biden said.