President of the United States Joe Biden confirmed that his administration is sending to Ukraine medium-range missile systems, The Washington Post reports.
Biden mentioned that Ukraine had assured him that this weapon is needed only to deter the russian aggressor from advancing in the east. It will not be used to hit targets in russian territory.
“Due to the additional funding for Ukraine approved with the support of a majority of two parties in the US Congress, the United States will be able to provide Ukraine with more weapons which they use so efficiently to repulse russian attacks. This new package will arm them with new opportunities and advanced weapons, including HIMARS with combat ammunition to defend their territory from russia’s offensive. We will keep leading the world in providing historical aid to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom,” – American President emphasized in his statement posted on the White House website.
According to him, more advanced missile systems and ammunition will allow Ukraine to “more accurately hit key targets on the battlefield”.
HIMARS transfer is aimed at widening the artillery capabilities of Ukraine in the war against russia. At the same time, the US will not provide missiles of the longest range for this system.
Advanced weapons are a part of the new military aid package worth 700m dollars.
According to the US army, missiles fired from HIMARS have a range of about 43 miles. The Ukrainian military is currently using the russian version of this system.
The US State Secretary Antony Blinken has announced the new aid package.
Reuters has previously reported HIMARS transfer to Ukraine.