According to sources reported by news agency Reuters, the United States and Germany are set to send heavy tanks to Ukraine, a move that Ukrainian officials claim will reshape the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Just hours before his 45th birthday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged allies to expedite the provision of modern tanks, ranging from five to 15, to bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities.
In his nightly video address, Zelenskyy emphasized the urgency of reaching concrete decisions to enhance Ukraine’s defense against perceived threats. He expressed confidence in allies’ ability to fulfill Ukraine’s tank requirements.
Reports indicate that Washington has reversed its stance, now prepared to initiate the process of sending M1 Abrams battle tanks to Ukraine, following recent opposition to Kyiv’s requests. Sources suggest the US commitment could entail approximately 30 tanks to be delivered gradually over the coming months.
Similarly, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has reportedly greenlit the deployment of Leopard 2 battle tanks to Ukraine, with the possibility of other countries like Poland also contributing. While specific details remain unconfirmed, Germany intends to dispatch at least one company of Leopard 2 A6 tanks, typically comprising 14 tanks.
Despite the absence of official confirmation from the US or Germany, officials in Kyiv remain optimistic about the prospect of receiving tank reinforcements. Andriy Yermak, head of Zelenskyy’s administration, conveyed hopefulness on Telegram, envisioning the tanks as a potent asset in Ukraine’s quest to reclaim occupied territory.
Kyiv has long appealed for Western tank support, asserting that such weaponry would provide the necessary firepower to breach Russian defensive lines and reclaim territories in the eastern and southern regions.