Russian tactics drove US to send Kyiv landmines: Austin

The US decision to send anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine in a major policy shift slammed by rights groups - was triggered by a change in Russian battlefield tactics favouring infantry over mechanised units, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Nov 20.

- 

"They don't lead with their mechanised forces any more," Mr Austin told reporters while on a visit to Laos. "They lead with dismounted forces who are able to close and do things to kind of pave the way for mechanised forces."

The Ukrainians "have a need for things that can help slow down that effort on the part of the Russians".

President Joe Biden's reversal of his previous curbs on US landmines comes just days after Washington gave Ukraine the green light to use US-made long-range missiles on targets within Russia, a longstanding ask from Kyiv.

The outgoing US administration is aiming to give Ukraine an upper hand before President-elect Donald Trump enters office.

Trump has repeatedly criticised US assistance for Ukraine, claiming he could secure a ceasefire within hours, without explaining details.

His comments have triggered fears in Kyiv and Europe about Ukraine's ability to withstand the Russian attacks without US support.