By KYIV. Dec 13 (Interfax-Ukraine) –The Biden administration is finalizing plans to send the Patriot missile defense system to Ukraine, which could be announced as early as this week, according to two U.S. officials and a senior administration official, CNN reported Tuesday.
The Pentagon’s plan, the report says, still needs to be approved by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin before it is sent to President Joe Biden for signature. Three officials told CNN that approval is expected.
Ukraine is calling on the United States to send an advanced long-range air defense system that is very effective at intercepting ballistic and cruise missiles, as it is being bombarded by Russian missiles and drones that have destroyed key infrastructure across the country. It will be the most effective long-range defensive weapon system sent to the country, and officials say it will help secure airspace for NATO countries in Eastern Europe.
