The U.S. is preparing a military aid package for Ukraine, which will include anti-personnel mines.

The United States has begun preparing a new military aid package for Ukraine valued at $725 million. Notably, this package will include anti-personnel mines for the first time. Previously, the United States did not supply this type of weaponry to Ukraine on a large scale.

This information comes from the news agency Reuters, citing its sources within the U.S. administration. It is noted that, in addition to anti-personnel mines, Ukraine will receive munitions for MANPADS and HIMARS MLRS, including cluster munitions, drones, and much more.

An official announcement regarding the new package has yet to be made – it may occur only on December 1. Until that time, the value and contents of the package may change.

"The United States has not exported anti-personnel mines for decades, and their use is controversial due to the potential harm to civilian populations. While over 160 countries have signed a treaty banning their use, Kyiv has been requesting them since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in early 2022," the publication added.

Provision of Anti-Personnel Mines to Ukraine

Earlier, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, during a visit to Laos, confirmed that this decision was made due to the evolution of combat operations. According to him, anti-personnel mines may serve as an effective response to the changing conditions of the war.

Despite this, the decision has faced criticism from human rights organizations, which remind of the long-term risks associated with the use of this type of weapon. They warn that mines pose a serious threat not only to military personnel but also to civilians even years after the conflict has ended.