John Kirby

The United States says it will effectively cooperate with the new commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, after his appointment by President Zelensky.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called for further solidarity between the US and Europe to support Ukraine and prevent Russia from winning Russia's aggression, stating that the consequences of failing to stop Russia and Putin will worsen global security.

Rescuers continue to search for five Marines reported missing after their CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter disappeared during heavy snow and rain in Southern California.

In the absence of U. S. assistance, Russia is taking advantage of Ukraine's gradually depleting air defense systems and ammunition to increase the number of attacks on Ukrainian positions and population centers.

Next week, the US Senate will vote on a bipartisan bill that would provide more aid to Ukraine and Israel and strengthen border security.

The White House hopes that Congress will approve the additional $60 billion requested in October to continue U. S. leadership in supporting Ukraine's military needs in the fight against Russia.

German Chancellor Scholz will visit Washington in early February to meet with President Biden and discuss additional assistance to Ukraine. The U.S. has exhausted existing congressional authorizations for Ukraine aid and is seeking to join forces with Germany, Kyiv's main arms and aid supplier, to increase support.