January 25, 2023 17:19 GMT
US To Send 31 Abrams Tanks To Ukraine
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US President Biden, speaking alongside Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the White House, has confirmed that the US will deliver one battalion of 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine.
- Biden says the transfer of tanks is because, "To liberate their land [Ukraine] need[s] to be able to counter Russia's evolving tactics. They need to improve their ability to maneuver in open terrain."
- Biden says he had "a long conversation with our NATO allies," this morning [Ger Chancellor Scholz, Fre Pres Macron, UK PM Sunak, Ita PM Meloni].
- Biden says that the Abrams tanks is extremely complex to operate and maintain and training of Ukrainian troops will begin "as soon as possible."
- Biden concedes that the delivery of the tanks will take time. The NYT reported earlier that it could be in excess of several years.
- Biden commends a German decision to send Leopard 2 tanks which will allow for two tanks battalions made up on German-made tanks. "Germany has really stepped up," Biden adds.
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