Strengthening Ukrainian Defenses

In a high-profile meeting on February 21, 2026, senior advisors from the U.S. Congress convened with Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Ihor Brusylo. The meeting aimed to discuss strategic initiatives including air defense enhancements, economic sanctions against Russia, and bolstering Ukraine’s energy resilience.

The gathering, which included key legislative directors, assistants, and national security advisors from both the U.S. and Ukraine, centered on the allocation of a substantial $400 million from the U.S. 2026 defense budget to Ukraine. These funds are earmarked for critical defense acquisitions like Patriot missile systems, with potential plans to localize missile production within Ukraine to strengthen its military autonomy.

The dialogue extended to the implementation of stringent sanctions targeting Russia’s economic sectors, including its shadow fleet and banking institutions. The sanctions are part of a broader strategy to maintain pressure on Russia amid ongoing conflicts. Ihor Brusylo underscored the anticipated enactment of a sanctions bill, which he described as a pivotal measure to curb Russian influence.

Furthermore, discussions covered the Rebuilding Economic Prosperity and Opportunity (REPO) Act, which has been instrumental in seizing and reallocating Russian assets to support Ukraine’s recovery efforts. This act, effective as of April 2024, has identified nearly USD 5 billion in Russian assets on U.S. soil, setting a precedent for international cooperation in economic sanctions.

The meeting also touched on the broader geopolitical landscape, including efforts to secure a dignified peace and robust security guarantees for Ukraine. The U.S. delegation’s visit to Ukraine, which included tours in Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Dnipro, highlighted ongoing American support, not only on a governmental but also on a humanitarian level, reinforcing commitments to Ukraine’s recovery and resilience amidst adversity.