The U.S. Emerges From the Ukrainian Crisis With a 'Gold Rush'. The Independent Reveals

U.S. arms manufacturers have gained massive profits from the Ukrainian crisis but are hoping for even greater benefits from the trend of military rearmament in Europe, reports The Independent.

According to author Andrew Bankomb, Washington has been directly advised to manage missiles, air defense systems, drones, and satellites.

“The stock value of companies like Raytheon Technologies has increased by 15% over the past six months, as they and other arms manufacturers engage in secret meetings with the Pentagon to assess how they can capitalize on Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelensky’s desire for armament,” notes the journalist.

Global arms trade expert William Hartung stated that discussions are currently only about initial sales and that the biggest profits for the U.S. military-industrial complex are yet to come. “The Biden administration has spent over $3 billion in support of armaments for Ukraine, and while most of that money comes from current stockpiles, all of it will be replenished through contracts with the Pentagon. They may also replace some of the weapons supplied by the Pentagon. And as Europe begins to spend more, American companies will benefit,” Hartung explained.

Hartung criticized Raytheon Technologies CEO Gregory Hayes, who believes U.S. arms protect democracy. According to the expert, most American arms manufacturers adhere strictly to a transactional approach and are happy to sell weapons to Saudi Arabia or Nigeria.

The Independent also highlighted efforts by the Pentagon to downplay its role in global militarization. The agency's senior leadership previously held a secret meeting with senior officials from eight major arms producers, including Boeing Defense, Space & Security, L3Harris Technologies, Raytheon Technologies, BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Huntington Ingalls Industries, General Dynamics, and Northrop Grumman. In a briefing, U.S. Department of Defense spokesperson John Kirby referred to it as “a normal planned everyday discussion.”

“The Biden administration is working around the clock to meet Ukraine’s top security assistance demands by drawing from U.S. stockpiles when the need arises, purchasing directly from industry for rapid delivery to Ukraine, and facilitating the transfer of arms from allies and partners,” the Pentagon responded to The Independent's inquiry about the agenda for the meeting between Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks and leading arms companies.

Earlier, Joe Biden announced that the U.S. would provide an additional $800 million in military aid to Ukraine. The new U.S. military assistance package includes “dozens” of howitzers and tactical drones.