The difference $61bn can make to Ukraine

Hello. US President Joe Biden could sign off on a bill that includes $61bn (£49bn) in military aid for Ukraine within days. Weapons analyst Chris Partridge looks into what it could mean for Ukraine's struggle against Russia, while Steve Rosenberg and James Waterhouse bring us the reactions from Moscow and Kyiv, respectively. We're also surveying the arguments for and against the deployment of the military on Ecuador's streets, and meeting the young women and girls who have sworn to protect the coastline on the Caribbean island of Antigua.

QUESTIONS ANSWERED

The military aid Ukraine needs

Repelling the Russian threat from the skies is vital for the protection of cities and critical infrastructure. Credit: Getty Images

The US House of Representative approved on Saturday a $61bn package of military aid for Ukraine. The measure now moves to the Senate, where it's expected to be approved. Ukraine has been waiting for this news for more than six months, and the urgently needed aid could help in several areas.

What does Ukraine need in terms of air defence?

Russia's cruise and ballistic missiles - including converted S-300 and S-400 surface to air missiles - along with hundreds of Iranian-made Shahed-136 drones - are difficult to counter because of the sheer volumes launched. Ukraine has a variety of western-supplied systems ranging from shoulder-launched Stinger short range missiles all the way up to the advanced - and extremely expensive - Patriot system. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said at least seven more Patriots, or their equivalent, were needed.

What about artillery on the ground?

Since October, Ukraine has lost nearly 583 sq km (225 sq miles) of its eastern territory to Russian forces, largely because of a lack of artillery. High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) have played a crucial role for Ukraine by delivering guided munitions from a mobile platform. Arrive at location, set-up, fire and quickly move on before Russian forces can locate and attack the launcher. Expect more HIMARS capability in Ukraine, and perhaps a commitment for more tanks and Bradley infantry fighting vehicles.

How long would it take for the aid to arrive?

Supplies are likely to have been moved closer to Ukraine, and once they are handed over they officially become the property of Ukraine. But getting the gear to the frontline - the artillery equipment particularly - could take many days or even weeks, as Russian forces continue their pounding in the east.

THE BIG PICTURE

Women looking after an island paradise

Kih'Nyiah McKay is determined to do her bit to save the planet. Credit: Adoptacoastline

In Antigua, like the rest of the Caribbean, the impacts of climate change are a daily reality, evidenced in receding beaches, worsening hurricanes, debilitating droughts and increasingly suffocating summers. A group of 60 girls and young women have been trained as coastal stewards to protect the Caribbean shores from pollution and erosion.

And finally... in England

Daniel Challis is a student with cerebral palsy who, up until recently, used a device with a robotic voice to speak. He wished for something that sounded closer to the accent of someone like him - a young man from Walsall, north of Birmingham. After two years and a lengthy casting process, Daniel found a new voice thanks to drama student Eli Lane. Watch the moment Eli hears Daniel thanking him for helping him sound more like his authentic self.