US to send advanced rocket systems to Ukraine as Russia tightens grip on Sievierodonetsk

Medium-range rocket systems, helicopters and anti-tank weapons form part of latest US package to help desperate situation in Donbas

• What we know on day 98 of the invasion

Joe Biden has confirmed he will send more advanced rocket systems to Kyiv, a critical weapon that Ukrainian leaders have been asking for as they struggle to stall Russian progress in the Donbas region.

The medium-range high mobility artillery rocket systems are part of a new $700m tranche of security assistance for Ukraine from the US that will include helicopters, Javelin anti-tank weapon systems, tactical vehicles, spare parts and more, according to two senior administration officials. The weapons package will be formally unveiled on Wednesday.