Ukraine Utilizes Long-Range Missiles Supplied by US Against Russian Forces

In a significant development amid the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, American officials have confirmed that Ukraine has initiated the use of long-range ballistic missiles provided by the United States against invading Russian forces.

 

These missiles, part of a $300 million aid package approved by US President Joe Biden in March, were delivered to Ukraine this April. They are reported to have been utilized at least once to target Russian installations in occupied Crimea, according to US media sources.

 

The newly deployed missiles are an extended-range variant of the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), capable of reaching distances of up to 300km (186 miles).

 

President Biden, initially cautious about sending more potent weaponry due to concerns about its potential impact on US military readiness, reportedly authorized the shipment of the long-range system in February.

 

State Department spokesman Vedant Patel confirmed the delivery, stating that the decision was made directly by the president and was initially kept confidential to maintain operational security for Ukraine.

 

While the precise quantity of missiles dispatched remains undisclosed, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan hinted at additional shipments. He underscored that while the missiles would have a notable effect, they were not a singular solution to the ongoing conflict.

 

Recent reports suggest that the longer-range missiles were deployed to strike a Russian airfield in occupied Crimea and target Russian troops in the occupied port city of Berdyansk.

 

Ukraine's urgent need for assistance has intensified in recent months as its ammunition reserves diminish and Russia continues to advance territorially. The new aid package, ratified into law by President Biden, follows months of congressional deadlock and opposition to aid provisions.

 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the aid, vowing to employ it effectively to counter Russian aggression. He stressed the importance of swift action in response to ongoing threats from Russia.

 

The conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which commenced in February 2022, has resulted in significant casualties and the displacement of civilians.