US considers providing Ukraine with ATACMS or GMLRS missiles packed with cluster bombs – Reuters

This development was reported by Evropeyska Pravda, citing a statement from US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.

Miller stated that there have been no significant changes regarding this matter at present, but negotiations are ongoing. 

He mentioned that they are currently engaged in discussions with Ukrainian counterparts and within the US government. However, they are not in a position to make an official announcement at this time.

Reuters, citing information from four American officials, suggests that the missiles in question could be ATACMS or GMLRS missiles, which are equipped with cluster munitions. 

The consideration for supplying these missiles arises from the successful use of cluster munitions in 155mm artillery shells in recent months. If approved, either one or both of these missile systems can be rapidly delivered to Ukraine.

However, it's worth noting that the decisions are not yet final. Some officials have expressed concerns within the Biden administration about whether such a move would be overly aggressive towards Russia.

The Pentagon has also responded to these reports, with Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder stating that from the Department of Defense's perspective, they have no new announcements to make. But he emphasized that they will continue to maintain close communication with Ukraine, allies, and partners regarding their security needs. 

• Previously, there were reports suggesting that the United States could potentially transfer hundreds of ATACMS missiles to Ukraine. However, later reports in The Washington Post indicated that there might not be a sufficient quantity of ATACMS missiles available for transfer.

• On August 7, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba discussed the need for ATACMS missiles with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a phone call. 

• Subsequently, on September 9, it was revealed that the USA might consider including missiles in future aid packages for Ukraine.