Ukraine has deployed long-range missiles supplied by the United States, targeting Russian military airfields in Crimea and occupied areas. The deployment, approved by President Biden, aims to enhance Ukraine’s reach and degrade Russian logistics. Allies, including the UK, are providing ongoing support, while US officials emphasize the strategic importance of these missiles for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
In recent weeks, the United States has discreetly provided Ukraine with long-range missiles to bolster its defense efforts against Russia. These missiles have been employed twice by Ukraine, targeting a Russian airfield in Crimea and Russian forces in southeastern Ukraine. The decision to supply these weapons was made by US President Joe Biden on March 12th, and they were included in a $300 million military aid package. Despite initial concerns from the Pentagon, the threat posed by Russia’s use of North Korean missiles and targeting of Ukraine’s infrastructure led to a change of heart. The US military was able to replenish its missile stocks, enabling the administration to approve the unanimous recommendation of its advisers to send the missiles to Ukraine. The funding for these missiles was secured in March when several Pentagon contracts came under bid, allowing President Biden to redirect the surplus funds to Ukraine’s assistance.
The United States has discreetly supplied long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to Ukraine as part of a military aid package. These missiles, with a range of up to 300km, have already been deployed twice by Ukrainian forces. The delivery of ATACMS was initially hesitant due to concerns about escalation, but has since been approved by President Biden. The weapons are expected to be included in the first tranche of a $1bn aid package and have been used in strikes on Crimean and southeastern Ukrainian targets.
The United States has secretly shipped a new long-range missile system to Ukraine, which was immediately used to attack Russian military targets in Crimea and the country’s southeast. The delivery, which includes over 100 missiles, is part of a major policy shift by the Biden administration, which had previously been reluctant to provide Ukraine with such advanced weaponry. The strikes by the longer-range missiles have been praised by proponents of sending advanced weaponry to Ukraine, who argue that they can help the country achieve battlefield victories and deter Russian aggression.
Ukraine has begun using advanced long-range ballistic missiles supplied by the United States, significantly increasing its striking capabilities against Russian forces in Crimea and other occupied areas. The new missiles, reportedly the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), can reach targets up to 300 kilometers (190 miles) away, doubling Ukraine’s previous range.
The United Kingdom has pledged an additional €580 million in military supplies to Ukraine, including long-range missiles and ammunition. The announcement comes as Ukraine continues to battle Russian forces in the east and south of the country. The aid package includes 400 vehicles, 60 boats, 1,600 munitions, and four million rounds of ammunition, as well as British Storm Shadow long-range missiles. The missiles have a range of around 150 miles (240km) and have been effective in hitting Russian targets. This aid package follows the US House of Representatives approving €57 billion in aid for Ukraine last week.
The United Kingdom has pledged an additional $620 million in military supplies for Ukraine, including long-range missiles and millions of rounds of ammunition. The announcement comes as Ukraine faces advancing Russian forces in the eastern region of the country. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed the assistance to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, assuring him of the UK’s unwavering support. The aid package includes 400 vehicles, 60 boats, 1,600 munitions, 4 million rounds of ammunition, and British Storm Shadow long-range missiles. President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the continued support, acknowledging that the new assistance will significantly aid Ukrainian forces on the front lines.
