Ukrainian forces pull back Abrams tanks amid drone threats and the US shifts aid strategy
Ukrainian forces are withdrawing American M1A1 Abrams tanks from the front line due to the threat of Russian drones - reported on Friday by the AP agency, citing information obtained from the Pentagon. To date, the Ukrainian forces have lost five of the 31 vehicles of this type received from the Americans.
26 April 2024 17:26
The widespread use of drones means there is currently no safe open area where tanks can operate. Abrams tanks have been withdrawn from the front line, and the United States will work with Ukraine to change tactics - said Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Christopher Grady.
Americans modify military aid packages
New American military aid reflects changes related to the situation on the battlefield. Emphasis has been placed on combating Russian drones, additional air defence, and a range of alternative and cheaper vehicles, including Humvees, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, and Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles.
American aid is expected to include much-needed ammunition for the Ukrainian Patriot air defence systems. For the first time, Washington confirmed that it is supplying Kyiv with long-range ATACMS missiles, which allow striking deep into areas occupied by Russians.
One of the US Department of Defense officials told the AP agency that during the withdrawal from Avdiivka in the Donetsk region in February, the Ukrainians lost several tanks as a result of Russian attacks.
Ammunition is a priority
The Associated Press recalled that due to the US Congress delaying the decision on the nearly £52 billion new aid package, the Ukrainian army had to ration ammunition, responding to every fifth Russian shot. The respective act was signed on Wednesday by President Joe Biden.
