WASHINGTON: The United States (US) is near to a decision on sending the Patriot missiles defense system to Russian invaded Ukraine, a US official was quoted as saying, who said that shipment has yet to be formally approved.
Patriot missile — a sophisticated system designed to shoot down missiles and airplanes — has been at the top of Ukraine’s wish list for months since the Russian invasion. US officials have hesitated to approve the deal for sending the expensive and sophisticated missile defense system, citing difficulties in training Ukrainian troops and the complicated technology involved in the system.
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United States reconsidering deal with Ukraine
However, with Russian missile attacks on energy hubs and civilian targets in Ukraine continuing unabated and the existing Ukrainian missile defense system strained by the huge volume of Russian missile attacks, US officials are reconsidering the deal to send the Patriot missiles to Ukraine.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is yet to give his final approval to the decision to send the missile system to Ukraine, according to the official. US President Joe Biden must also approve the decision of defence system.
Amid Russian missile attacks and airstrikes, Kyiv is constantly looking towards its Western allies and the US to support the country against Moscow. The US has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to support Ukraine against Russia. Other Western nations are also providing defence support to Ukraine in the fight against the Asian giant Russia.
