Ukraine Deploys US-Supplied Long-Range Missiles, Boosting Striking Power Against Russia

Ukraine Deploys Long-Range Missiles Provided by the US

For the first time, Ukraine has begun utilizing long-range ballistic missiles secretly supplied by the United States. These missiles, known as ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System), were used to strike a Russian military airfield in Crimea last week and Russian forces in another occupied area overnight.

The new missiles significantly enhance Ukraine's striking distance, nearly doubling it to 300 kilometers (190 miles) compared to the mid-range version received from the US last October. This capability allows Ukrainian forces to engage Russian targets from a safer distance, beyond the reach of Russian counter-attacks.

The delivery of these long-range missiles was kept confidential until their actual use on the battlefield. Ukrainian officials have not publicly acknowledged their receipt or use, but President Zelensky alluded to their importance in a recent social media post, emphasizing the significance of "long-range capabilities, artillery, and air defense" for restoring peace.

The decision to provide these missiles followed months of hesitation due to concerns about escalation. The Biden administration was initially apprehensive about supplying weapons that could potentially strike deep into Russian territory, fearing Moscow's reaction. However, the recent acquisition and use of long-range ballistic missiles by Russia from North Korea prompted the US to greenlight the delivery to Ukraine.

The deployment of these missiles comes at a crucial time for Ukraine, as the war enters its third year. Facing acute shortages of artillery and air defense systems, Ukraine has been rationing its munitions while enduring intensified Russian attacks. The long-range missiles offer a much-needed boost to Ukraine's defense capabilities, enabling them to counter Russian advances and potentially regain lost territory.