The United States has approved a proposed $825 million arms deal that would provide Ukraine with thousands of advanced long-range missiles, a move seen as a direct response to Russia’s intensifying strikes on Kyiv.
The package, announced on August 28 by the U.S. State Department, includes 3,350 Extended Range Attack Munitions (ERAM) along with GPS navigation systems, anti-spoofing technology, spare parts, containers, and training. The weapons, capable of hitting targets up to 280 miles away, are designed to significantly boost Ukraine’s strike capability against Russian forces.
Funding for the sale will come through a combination of U.S. Foreign Military Financing and contributions from NATO allies, including Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway. Delivery could begin later this year once the deal clears congressional notification.
The announcement came just hours after a deadly Russian drone and missile barrage on Kyiv killed at least 21 people, including children, and damaged diplomatic offices belonging to the European Union and the British Council. The timing underscored Washington’s commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s defenses at a moment of heightened escalation.
President Donald Trump, who has previously called for renewed peace talks, has faced criticism for imposing restrictions on Ukraine’s use of certain U.S. weapons, particularly against targets deep inside Russian territory. Still, the approval of the ERAM missile sale signals a willingness to reinforce Ukraine militarily while pursuing diplomatic channels.
Ukrainian officials welcomed the deal, calling it a critical lifeline that will help the country defend its cities and infrastructure from further Russian aggression. European leaders, many of whom summoned Russian envoys following Thursday’s attacks, also praised the move as a show of solidarity.
As the conflict grinds on, the missile sale highlights the delicate balance between arming Ukraine for defense and managing the risks of escalation. What remains clear is that the war continues to reshape alliances and test the resolve of both Kyiv and its Western backers.
