The United States is sending Ukraine more than 500 interceptor missiles for the Patriot and NASAMS air defence systems to meet its defence needs by the end of the year, the WSJ reports.
The US administration is trying to speed up the delivery of weapons to Ukraine before Trump takes office.
‘Trump promised to end the war in Ukraine before his inauguration. Although he has not announced a specific plan, Biden administration officials fear that the new administration may reduce military aid to Ukraine,’ the newspaper writes.
The Biden administration is trying to provide Kyiv with as much military support as possible before January to strengthen its negotiating position and bolster the country’s defence.
‘In response to increased attacks by Russian drones and missiles, the Pentagon is sending more than 500 interceptor missiles to Ukraine for the Patriot and NASAMS systems,’ the journalists note.
These deliveries should cover Ukraine’s air defence needs until the end of the year.
Ukrainian officials have previously called for additional deliveries of ATACMS tactical missile systems with a range of up to 200 miles, which could provide strikes deep into Russian territory.
The Pentagon has refrained from sending additional ATACMS, arguing that Russia has moved aircraft and other important targets beyond their range. The Biden administration also did not authorise the use of these missiles for attacks on Russian territory itself.
According to two US officials and an adviser to the Ukrainian government, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin recently denied President Zelenskyy’s request to prioritise ATACMS deliveries.