UK sends anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine due to Russian escalation against civilians and infrastructure

LONDON, 13 Oct. (DPA/EP) -

The United Kingdom has announced that it will send anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine so that kyiv can defend itself from Russian attacks by air.

Defense Secretary Ben Wallace has indicated he will supply additional anti-aircraft missiles, including munitions capable of shooting down cruise missiles, the 'AMRAAM' rockets.

These types of missiles will be supplied "in the coming weeks" to kyiv for use by the air defense system, the Defense Ministry said in a statement collected by DPA.

British officials hope the new air defense missiles will help protect Ukraine's infrastructure, after Moscow this week launched a series of missile and drone attacks on the country's cities and power plants.

The Kremlin's change in strategy -- with attacks on civilian areas and infrastructure -- has come in retaliation for an explosion on Saturday that damaged the strategic Kerch bridge, which links Russia with the annexed Crimean peninsula.

In this context, the United Kingdom, like other Western governments, have increased the shipment of weapons to Ukraine. The latest British package also includes hundreds of air defense missiles and drones, as well as about twenty artillery guns.

"Russia's latest indiscriminate attacks on civilian areas in Ukraine warrant increased support for those trying to defend their nation. That is why today I have authorized the supply of 'AMRAAM' anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine," Wallace said.

Thus, he added that "being armed will help Ukraine defend its skies from attacks and strengthen its anti-missile defense in general."