BRUSSELS –As the fog of war descends upon Ukraine, the 23rd meeting of the Defense Contact Group brought a ray of hope. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hailed the grit and determination of more than 50 countries backing Ukraine’s fight for survival, announcing a $225 million package of air defense interceptors, armored vehicles, anti-tank weapons, and artillery systems.

With Russia breathing down Ukraine’s neck, allies are finally stepping up their game. The Netherlands leads the charge with a Patriot air defense system, while Sweden offers a hefty military package that includes much-needed air defense systems. Italy, not to be outdone, promises a second SAMP/T air defense system.

The Ukraine Defense Contact Group has pledged to stand firm in the face of Russian aggression, vowing to keep Ukraine’s future free from the iron grip of tyranny.

Air Force Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., a man who knows a thing or two about combat, gave a nod to Ukraine’s remarkable pushback against the Russian onslaught. Despite being outnumbered, Ukraine has managed to claw back over half of its land from the invaders, sending the Kremlin’s forces reeling. Brown gives credit where it’s due – the Defense Contact Group has been a lifeline for Ukraine, offering essential capabilities to keep Putin’s goons at bay.

As the fight rages on near Kharkiv, Ukraine’s defenders stand their ground, delivering a bloody nose to Russian troops and equipment. The tally of Russian losses is staggering – 350,000 casualties and a trail of 2,600 smoldering combat vehicles. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s been chipping away at Russia’s naval prowess in the Black Sea.