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3.350 of the missiles are heading for the war-torn country, but how can they be used?
3.350 of the missiles are heading for the war-torn country, but how can they be used?
What is happening?
The Trump administration has greenlit a significant weapons deal with Ukraine, approving the sale of 3,350 Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) missiles, CNN reports.
Valued at $825 million, the move offers a strategic boost to Kyiv as it defends against persistent Russian attacks.
A Game-Changer for Ukrainian defense?
The ERAM missiles boast a range between 150 and 280 miles, potentially giving Ukraine greater reach and flexibility in targeting.
The weapon is supposedly designed around a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) modular, open architecture and will deliver “affordable long-range effects.”
It can be launched from the fighter jets at the Ukrainian Air Force’s disposal.
Sale follows high-Stakes diplomacy
The announcement came shortly after President Trump’s meetings with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The timing has raised eyebrows, as diplomatic negotiations over the war remain at a standstill.
First of its kind under Trump
While previous U.S. sales to Ukraine under Trump focused on maintaining existing systems, this deal marks the first significant delivery of brand-new weaponry.
Recent Russian strikes underscore urgency
The missile sale was revealed following a particularly deadly night of Russian strikes on Kyiv.
The attacks have further fueled Ukraine’s urgent calls for advanced defense capabilities.
International funding makes the deal possible
The ERAM purchase will be financed through a mix of contributions from Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and U.S. Foreign Military Financing.
A NATO-linked effort
A U.S. State Department notice described the sale as “an example of working together with our NATO allies to develop a capable and scalable system capable of being delivered on a fast timeline.”
Supporting U.S. foreign policy goals
The State Department also emphasized that the deal advances U.S. national security interests by reinforcing the stability of a European partner nation striving for political and economic progress.
Unclear usage limits on new missiles
As of now, it remains uncertain whether the U.S. will impose restrictions on how Ukraine can deploy the ERAM missiles once delivered.
This detail could prove crucial in managing tensions with Russia.
Ukraine’s arsenal expands
With no peace deal in sight, the delivery of new weapons like the ERAM reflects a growing trend of long-term military support from Western nations determined to help Ukraine withstand Russian aggression.
