United States (US) President Joseph Biden has approved the supply of anti-personnel mines to Ukraine, a US official told Reuters, a step that could help slow Russian advances in eastern Ukraine, especially when used in conjunction with other US-sourced munitions.
The US expects Ukraine to use mines on its territory, although it has pledged not to use them in areas inhabited by its civilians, the official said.
The Washington Post also reported on Washington’s new decision.
The US has been stocking Ukraine with anti-tank mines throughout the war with Russia, but the addition of anti-personnel mines is intended to slow the advance of Russian ground troops, the official added, speaking on condition of anonymity.
American mines differ from Russian ones because they are “non-persistent” and become inert after a predetermined period, the official said.
They require a battery to detonate and will not explode once the battery runs out.
Separately, the US State Department said it would close its embassy in Kiev after “receiving specific information regarding a potentially significant airstrike on November 20”.
“The U.S. Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens be prepared to evacuate immediately in the event that an air alert is issued.”
Both Ukraine and Russia reported major drone attacks on their territories overnight.
It is not known if there are any victims.
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Source: www.vijesti.me
