Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant in Pennsylvania, where critical munitions for Ukraine's defense against Russian forces are being produced. The plant is manufacturing 155 mm artillery shells, essential for Ukraine's fight against Russian ground forces. Zelenskyy's visit to the plant marked the beginning of a busy week in the U.S., where he will address the U.N. General Assembly in New York and hold talks with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in Washington.
As Zelenskyy's motorcade arrived at the ammunition plant, a small group of supporters gathered to show their appreciation. The area around the plant was heavily secured, with police presence and roadblocks in place to ensure safety.
The 155 mm shells produced at the Scranton plant are used in howitzer systems, enabling ground forces to strike targets from a distance. Ukraine has received over 3 million of these shells from the U.S. so far. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the plant workers for increasing production to meet Ukraine's needs.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has been seeking permission from the U.S. to use longer-range missile systems. However, the Pentagon and White House have not yet granted this request, citing strategic concerns. The U.S. has ramped up production of 155 mm rounds to meet demand, with plans to increase output significantly in the coming months.
The U.S. has been a major supporter of Ukraine, providing a wide range of ammunition, weapons systems, and military aid totaling over $56 billion. This assistance is crucial in deterring further Russian aggression and safeguarding neighboring NATO-member countries from potential conflict.
Zelenskyy's visit to the ammunition plant underscores the strong partnership between Ukraine and the U.S. in the face of ongoing challenges in the region.
