The debate in Washington centers on whether to ship the M1 Abrams tanks stored in military depots to Ukraine or to authorize new builds. A prominent American newspaper reports on the development, drawing on statements from Stanley Brown, the First Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs. The piece notes that the Department of Defense has not reached a final decision on the procurement path yet.
Brown explained that early plans called for producing 31 new M1 Abrams tanks under a fresh contract. Later, the thinking shifted toward keeping some tanks in reserve so Kyiv would not face delays. He also indicated that a mixed approach remains plausible, with roughly half of the vehicles being new and the other half used from existing stock.
Brown offered a candid assessment, saying it remains unclear which tanks Kyiv will ultimately receive. The conversation reflects a broader pattern in allied support, balancing immediacy with long-term capabilities.
Across Europe, the supply conversation has intensified. Germany previously announced the delivery of 14 Leopard 2 tanks and encouraged other nations to contribute similar assistance. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius pledged that Berlin would send the latest Leopard models to Kyiv by the end of March. In addition to Germany, Britain, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, and France have promised Western tanks for Ukraine. The United States has also signaled readiness to provide 31 M1 Abrams tanks, with Kyiv expected to be among the first beneficiaries as allies coordinate counts approaching a potential total of up to 140 tanks.