WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration is preparing to send M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, reversing its previous stance that the tanks were too difficult to maintain and operate for Ukrainian forces, according to U.S. officials..
The decision, which has not yet been finalized, is expected to be announced Wednesday, the officials said. It would come as part of a broader diplomatic effort with Germany to provide Ukraine with the heavy weaponry it needs to retake territory from Russia..
Under the plan, the U.S. would send about 30 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, while Germany would send about 14 Leopard 2 tanks, the officials said. The tanks would be part of a larger package of military aid that would also include other equipment and ammunition..
The decision to send Abrams tanks to Ukraine marks a significant shift in the U.S. position. The Biden administration had previously resisted providing the tanks, arguing that they were too complex and difficult to maintain for Ukrainian forces. However, the administration has come under increasing pressure from Congress and allies to provide the tanks, which are seen as essential for Ukraine to retake territory from Russia..
The decision to send Abrams tanks to Ukraine is also a sign of the growing urgency of the war. The war has been grinding on for nearly a year, and Russia has made significant gains in recent months. The U.S. and its allies are hoping that the provision of heavy weaponry will help Ukraine to turn the tide of the war..
The decision to send Abrams tanks to Ukraine is likely to be met with criticism from Russia. Russia has already warned that it will view the provision of tanks to Ukraine as an escalation of the war. However, the U.S. and its allies believe that the provision of tanks is necessary to help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression..
The decision to send Abrams tanks to Ukraine is a major development in the war. It is a sign of the growing urgency of the war and the increasing willingness of the U.S. and its allies to provide Ukraine with the heavy weaponry it needs to retake territory from Russia..
