The City of Miami, Florida announced on Tuesday a new gun buyback program dubbed “Guns 4 Ukraine” that is designed to “take guns off [American] streets.” Some of the guns collected will be shipped to Ukraine to be used in the nation’s war with Russia, the city said.
“In an effort to support Ukraine and take guns off of our streets, @CityofMiami and @MiamiPD will be hosting a gun buyback on Saturday, June 18. Please ensure all firearms are unloaded and transported in a secure carrying case. No questions asked!” the city tweeted on Tuesday.
City Commissioner. Ken Russell tweeted that “appropriate guns will be sent to Ukraine to support their efforts.”
According to CBS Miami, the city will provide the following rewards:
- Firearm – $50.00 gift card.
- Shotgun or Rifle – $100.00 gift card.
- High Powered Rifle (.223 Caliber, AR-15, AK-47) – $150.00 gift card
The “Guns 4 Ukraine” buyback event is scheduled for Saturday, June 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Miami City Hall, 3500 Pan American Drive.
Meanwhile, President Joe Biden announced on Wednesday that his administration will send another $1 billion in taxpayer-funded military aid to Ukraine to assist with the nation’s ongoing conflict with Russia.
“I informed President Zelenskyy that the United States is providing another $1 billion in security assistance for Ukraine, including additional artillery and coastal defense weapons, as well as ammunition for the artillery and advanced rocket systems that the Ukrainians need to support their defensive operations in the Donbas,” Biden said in a statement.
“We also discussed Secretary Austin’s efforts in Brussels today to coordinate additional international support for the Ukrainian armed forces.”
Biden also announced an additional $225 million in humanitarian assistance to support “the Ukrainian people whose lives have been ripped apart by this war.”
“Today, I am also announcing an additional $225 million in humanitarian assistance to help people inside Ukraine, including by supplying safe drinking water, critical medical supplies and health care, food, shelter, and cash for families to purchase essential items,” his statement added.
“The bravery, resilience, and determination of the Ukrainian people continues to inspire the world. And the United States, together with our allies and partners, will not waver in our commitment to the Ukrainian people as they fight for their freedom,” he concluded.
The additional funding comes after Congress passed a massive $40 billion Ukraine aid package last month.
“The vast majority of Americans sympathize with Ukraine and want them to repel the Russian invaders. But if Congress were honest, they would take the money from elsewhere in the budget or ask Americans to pay higher taxes or, heaven forbid, loan the money to Ukraine instead of giving it to Ukraine,” Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., said at the time. “But Congress will do what Congress does best: spend other people’s money.”
