US to purchase advanced missile system for Ukraine

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• The Biden administration is finalizing the purchase of an advanced air missile system for Ukraine’s defense.
• The U.S. is looking for ways to help Ukraine’s air defense after Russian missiles struck a crowded shopping mall in Kremenchuk.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy asked for G7 leaders for more air defense capabilities “that could shoot Russian missiles out in the sky.”  

National security adviser Jake Sullivan said Monday that the Biden administration is working to finalize the purchase of an advanced air defense system to be sent to Ukraine.

NASAMS, the air defense system, is an anti-aircraft medium-to-long-range surface-to-air missile that can allegedly strike targets 100 miles away.

Sullivan confirmed to reporters at the G7 summit in Germany that the U.S. of the purchase but has yet to sign a deal to make the purchase official.

It is not reported how much the Norwegian-made NASAMS system costs.

President Joe Biden told the other world leaders at the G7 summit about the U.S. intentions, Sullivan said.

The U.S has vowed to send additional military aid to Ukraine and the purchase of the NASAMS system is part of it. The military package will also include artillery ammunition and counter-battery radars. The Ukrainian military made specific requests for the ammunition and radars, he said.

Reportedly, the NASAMS system protects restricted airspace around the White House.

Last week, the White House announced it is sending $450 million in military aid to Ukraine. HIMARS missile systems are part of that package.

On Monday, Ukraine’s President Zelensky met virtually with G7 leaders, requesting for more air defense capabilities “that could shoot Russian missiles out in the sky.”  Two Russian missiles struck a crowded shopping mall in Kremenchuk on Monday, leaving at least 10 dead and dozens wounded or missing.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine entered its fifth month.

The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Japan confirmed at the G7 summit that they will further tighten sanctions on the Kremlin by banning the imports of Russian gold, the nation’s second-largest import. Other G7 members Germany, France, and Italy held out.

The U.S. Treasury announced it will release an official announcement of the ban as it concerns U.S.-based businesses.

Source: AOL