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US to move attack helicopters to Poland amid Ukraine crisis: CNN

23.02.2022 09:00
The United States will move some of its F-35 fighter jets and Apache attack helicopters based in Europe to the Baltic states and Poland amid an escalating security crisis provoked by Russia, broadcaster CNN has reported, citing a senior defence official.
US President Joe Biden.
US President Joe Biden.Photo: EPA/SHAWN THEW

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday announced a fresh slew of sanctions against Russia over its actions in Ukraine.

He also said that his administration would work to bolster the defences of America's NATO allies in Europe.

As part of these efforts, four F-35 fighter jets from Germany will deploy to the Baltic states, while another four will deploy to NATO’s southeastern flank, CNN reported.

Meanwhile, 20 Apache helicopters from Germany will head for the Baltic states, and another 12 Apaches from Greece will deploy to Poland, according to the US broadcaster.

In addition, around 800 infantry troops based in Italy will move to the Baltic region.

Biden told a news conference at the White House on Tuesday that he had authorized additional movements of US forces and equipment already in Europe to the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, the Reuters news agency reported.

"Let me be clear, these are totally defensive moves on our part. We have no intention of fighting Russia," Biden told reporters.

"We want to send an unmistakable message though, that the United States, together with our allies, will defend every inch of NATO territory," he added.

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Source: PAP, Reuters, CNN