Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to embark on a crucial visit to the United States this week, with a key stop at a Pennsylvania ammunition factory that is playing a vital role in Ukraine’s fight against Russian forces. The Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, which produces 155 mm artillery shells used in howitzer systems, which are towed large guns with long barrels that can fire at various angles.
According to U.S. officials and a source familiar with Zelensky’s schedule, the Ukrainian leader will visit the factory on Sunday to express his gratitude to the workers who have increased production of the critical munitions over the past year. The trip marks the beginning of a busy week for Zelensky in the U.S., which includes addressing the U.N. General Assembly in New York and meeting with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in Washington on Thursday.
The 155 mm shells produced at the Scranton plant are highly valued by Ukraine’s ground forces, as they can strike targets up to 15 miles to 20 miles (24 kilometers to 32 kilometers), providing a significant advantage in the conflict. Ukraine has already received over 3 million of these shells from the U.S., and the factory’s increased production has helped to alleviate concerns about depleting U.S. stockpiles.
Zelensky’s visit comes as Ukraine continues to push for permission to use longer-range missile systems to target Russian positions deeper inside the country. However, the Pentagon has been hesitant to grant this request, citing concerns about the strategic implications of a U.S.-made missile potentially striking Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that such a move would be seen as a declaration of war against Russia and its allies.
The U.S. has significantly invested in restarting production lines and is now manufacturing over 40,000 155 mm rounds per month, with plans to increase production to 100,000 rounds per month. Zelensky’s visit is seen as an opportunity to thank the workers and officials who have made this increased production possible, including Doug Bush, assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics and technology, and Bill LaPlante, the Pentagon’s top weapons buyer, who are expected to join him at the plant.
The U.S. has been the largest donor to Ukraine, providing over $56 billion in aid, as part of a broader effort by NATO and partner countries to support Ukraine’s defense. The commitment to Ukraine’s defense is seen as crucial in preventing further Russian aggression that could threaten neighboring NATO-member countries and escalate into a larger conflict.
