London, 13 (DPA/EP)
The United Kingdom has announced that it will send anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine so that Kyiv can defend itself from Russian attacks from the air.
Defense Secretary Ben Wallace indicated that he would provide additional anti-aircraft missiles, including munitions capable of shooting down cruise missiles, the AMRAAM.
These types of missiles will be supplied “in the coming weeks” to Kyiv for use in the air defense system, the Defense Ministry said in a statement compiled by the Department of Political Affairs.
British officials hope new air defense missiles will help protect Ukraine’s infrastructure, after Moscow this week launched a series of missile and drone attacks on the country’s cities and power stations.
The Kremlin’s change of strategy – with attacks on civilian areas and infrastructure – came in response to an explosion on Saturday that damaged the strategic Kerch Bridge, which links Russia to annexed Crimea.
In this context, the UK, like other Western governments, has increased arms shipments to Ukraine. The latest British package also includes hundreds of air defense missiles and drones, as well as about two dozen artillery guns.
“Recent indiscriminate Russian attacks on civilian areas of Ukraine warrant increased support for those trying to defend their nation. That is why today I authorized the supply of AMRAAM anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine,” Wallace said.
Thus, he added, “the armament will help Ukraine defend its airspace from attacks and strengthen its anti-missile defense in general.”
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