The administration of President Joe Biden is preparing a new arms package for Ukraine worth $725 million. This information comes from Reuters, citing statements from two American officials.
According to a source familiar with the plan, the Biden administration intends to provide a variety of weapons from American stockpiles. This includes anti-personnel mines, drones, Stinger missiles, and ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS). The package is also expected to include cluster munitions.
An official notification regarding the new aid package may be sent to Congress as early as Monday. The contents and size of this package may change in the coming days ahead of Biden's anticipated signing.
"The United States has not exported anti-personnel mines for decades, and their use is controversial due to the potential harm to civilians. Although more than 160 countries have signed a treaty banning their use, Kyiv has been requesting them since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in early 2022," the agency emphasizes.
It is known that Russian troops are using such weapons along the front lines.
The mines that will be sent to Ukraine are "non-persistent" mines, with a power system that operates only for a short period. Unlike older landmines, they will not pose a threat to civilians for an indefinite time.
Assistance to Ukraine: Other News
The administration of President Joe Biden does not have enough time to utilize the billions of dollars allocated for weapons for Ukraine before the end of its term. When the new administration takes office after Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20, it will decide what to do with the remaining funds.
Meanwhile, the Norwegian government has decided to significantly increase its aid to Ukraine. In 2025, the country plans to finance assistance to Ukraine totaling 30 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately $2.69 billion).