US Announces New Sanctions on Russia, Billions in More Aid for Ukraine

On the first anniversary of Russia's "special military operation" in Ukraine, the U.S. announced new sanctions on Russia and $12 billion in new aid for Ukraine.

The Aid: The U.S. will send Ukraine $2 billion in additional military equipment, including 155 mm artillery ammunition, rocket system munitions, mine detection equipment, and more. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also announced an additional $10 billion aid package, which includes roughly $250 million to address “immediate" power grid needs. Blinken said the funds "will help keep schools open, power generators for hospitals running, and keep homes and shelters across Ukraine warm."

The Sanctions: The sanctions target dozens of financial institutions, companies, and entities in Russia’s metals and mining sector, as well as international firms suspected of helping Moscow try to evade previous sanctions. The moves block the companies’ assets in the U.S. and restrict American citizens from doing business with them.

For Context: A congressional report from December 2022 said sanctions have cost Russia hundreds of billions of dollars and decreased its military efficiency. The U.S. has now committed nearly $90 billion in financial assistance to Ukraine since January 2022.

How the Media Covered It: The aid was a top story across the spectrum Friday, especially from left- and center-rated sources. Outlets on both left and right, including CBS News (Lean Left bias) and Daily Caller (Right bias), highlighted concerns that the U.S. may experience a weapons shortage if Ukraine aid continues at its current pace.