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| Flag of the United States and Ukraine |
WASHINGTON – The United States Defense Department unveiled a $775 million package of defense equipment and ammunition for Ukraine on Friday, including various types of missiles, artillery, and mine-clearing devices.
More precision-guided missiles for the Himars systems, which have allowed Ukrainian troops to hit Russian command centers and ammunition stores deep beyond the front lines, are included in the package, as are more anti-armor weaponry such as TOW missiles and Javelin systems.
Scan Eagle surveillance drones, high-speed anti-radiation (HARM) missiles that target ground-based radar systems, and 105mm howitzers with 36,000 artillery rounds are also included.
"With this package, we want to ensure that Ukraine has a constant supply of ammunition to satisfy its demands," a senior US defense official told reporters.
US-Ukraine Relations
The United States and Ukraine share a long and complex relationship and have much to offer each other. This special relationship was originally forged based on the values of democracy, personal liberty, and the rule of law because these are the cornerstones of the U.S.-Ukraine relationship. On a visit to Kyiv last week, President Barack Obama reaffirmed these values and recommitted to a strong relationship with Ukraine.
According to the official, Ukraine's military has effectively used the now 19 shipments of weaponry delivered by the US since Moscow invaded on February 24, assisting them in blunting Russian forces' progress.
"You are witnessing a complete and absolute lack of progress by the Russians on the battlefield," the official added, speaking on the condition of anonymity to reporters.
"You can see the Russians are still paying a hefty price with Ukrainian strikes, particularly with the Himars system," the official added.
"They are experiencing these fees and are unable to progress."
The source admitted that the Ukrainians had not been able to retake substantial areas along the battle lines in the east and south of the nation.
However, the additional armament package would assist bolster them, according to the official, who stressed the importance of being able to "sustain the gains that we've witnessed from the Ukrainians on the battlefield."
Similarly, the supply of HARM missiles intends to weaken Russian air defenses.
The air-to-surface missiles target radar signals and can attack from up to 30 miles (50 kilometers) away.
According to the official, the arrival of mine clearance equipment, which includes 40 mine-resistant trucks with rollers that can safely detonate mines, would assist the Ukrainians in conducting more offensive operations.
"The Ukrainians will require this type of capabilities to drive their forces forward and reclaim territory," added the diplomat.