The United States is contemplating the inclusion of long-range ATACMS missiles in an imminent military assistance package destined for Ukraine, U.S. television news channel ABC News reported on Sept. 9, citing their sources, informs NV.
The channel said that the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden was likely to provide Ukraine with ATACMS missiles to aid in its defense against potential Russian aggression.
One official said that ATACMS missiles were “coming” to Ukraine. However, the official added that plans for military assistance could change before an official announcement is made.
Another official stated that the decision to provide missiles is already “on the table,” and ATACMS missiles are likely to be included in a future security assistance package. He further added that a final decision has not yet been made, and it may take months before Ukraine receives the missiles.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Kyiv on Sept. 6, announced over a billion dollars in aid to Ukraine.
Blinken, during his meeting with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, acknowledged Ukraine had made “significant progress” during its counter-offensive against Russian invasion forces.
Additionally, the United States officially announced a new military aid package for Ukraine, which includes depleted uranium munitions.
The $175 million aid package encompasses additional anti-aircraft equipment, artillery ammunition, anti-tank weapons, and other equipment.
This marks Blinken’s third visit to Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s invasion. On April 25, 2022, Blinken, along with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, also met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv.