“Together with our Allies and partners, we are delivering the weapons and equipment that Ukrainian forces are using so effectively as they continue their successful counteroffensive against the Russian invasion,” Blinken said.
The package includes additional munitions for the HIMARS system, which Ukraine has used to hit several Russian logistics hubs, command posts and ammunition depots. It also includes tens of thousands of 105mm conventional artillery shells, 1,000 155mm precision rounds and anti-drone systems. With winter coming, the US is also providing cold weather gear and more night vision devices.
A week ago, the Pentagon announced another $675 million package, which included additional ammunition for the HIMARS, as well as tens of thousands of artillery rounds.
CNN reported that the US has, for now, decided not to send long-range ATACMS munitions to Ukraine for use with the HIMARS platform, despite repeated Ukrainian requests. ATACMS have a range of nearly 200 miles, capable of striking deep into Russian territory.
Pentagon officials have said that HIMARS launchers combined with GMLRS, a munition with a range of about 40 miles, is what the US should focus on providing to Ukraine at that time.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began on February 24, the US has provided $15.1 billion in security assistance to Ukraine.
