The Latest Breaking News from John Kirby

The Pentagon says the Phoenix Ghost tactical unmanned aerial system was designed mainly for striking targets.

Eight weeks into the war, the Biden administration's decision to dramatically ramp up delivery of artillery guns to Ukraine signals a deepening American commitment at a pivotal stage of fighting for the country's industrial heartland. It also brings into stark relief Moscow's warning that continued US military aid to Ukraine…

The aid, Biden said, will be sent “directly to the front lines of freedom.”

Russia on Thursday expanded an entry ban on US officials to include US Vice-President Kamala Harris and 28 other American officials, businesspeople and journalists. The sanctions list, published by the Russian foreign ministry, included Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks and Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby, among others.…

So-called "Ghost" drones that are part of a new $800 million US arms package for Ukraine were rapidly developed by the US Air Force for Kyiv and have similar capabilities as armed "Switchblade" drones, the Pentagon said on Thursday. "This was rapidly developed by the Air Force in response specifically…

Senior US defence official says howitzer training of a few dozen Ukrainian forces has begun outside of the country.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Chinese Minister of National Defense General Wei Fenghe on Wednesday, the first call between the two officials since the start of President Joe Biden's administration more than a year ago. Relations between China and the United States have been tense, with the world's…

The call comes amid continued US concerns that China could support Russia in the invasion of Ukraine.

(This April 19 story refiles to correct Pentagon comments to say no fixed wing aircraft were provided to Ukraine)