US Defense Secretary, Lloyd Austin, announced on Tuesday that Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian forces is making “steady” progress. In a significant move to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities, Austin confirmed that Kyiv would soon receive state-of-the-art “Abrams” tanks from the US.
During the inauguration of a defense contact group meeting about Ukraine, Austin remarked, “I’m pleased to announce that the M1 Abrams tanks, which the US committed to deliver, will soon enter Ukraine.”
He further acknowledged the tenacity of Ukrainian troops, stating, “The counterattack launched by Kyiv continues to make strides. The valiant Ukrainian forces are breaking through the heavily fortified lines of the Russian aggressor army.”
Austin also welcomed Ukraine’s newly-appointed Defense Minister, Rustom Umerov, who took office earlier this month following corruption scandals within the department.
Earlier this year, Washington had promised these tanks to Kyiv as part of a substantial $43 billion assistance package, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Along with the tanks, the US will send depleted uranium ammunition capable of penetrating armored vehicles. It’s worth noting that this type of ammunition has previously sparked controversy due to its potential association with health issues like cancer and birth defects in areas where it was used in past conflicts. However, no conclusive evidence has yet confirmed it as the direct cause.
This announcement marks another chapter in the US’s ongoing support for Ukraine, amidst the country’s stand against foreign aggression.
