Ukraine has deployed long-range missiles supplied by the United States, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The deployment of these missiles, which have a range of up to 300 kilometers, allows Ukraine to target Russian airfields and military installations deep within Russian territory.
According to US officials, the missiles were first deployed last week to bomb a Russian military airfield in Crimea. They have also been used to strike Russian forces in other occupied areas. The deployment of these missiles comes as part of a new $61 billion aid package approved by Congress, which includes additional deliveries of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS).
Military experts believe that the arrival of these long-range missiles will give Ukraine’s armed forces a significant advantage in the conflict. They can now degrade Russian logistics and threaten Russian airfields in deep rear areas. However, some experts also caution that Russia may have had time to offset the potential operational impacts of these missiles.
The deployment of these missiles is part of a broader effort by Ukraine’s allies to provide ongoing support. The UK has announced a £500 million package of military aid, while Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has called for increased pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. US President Joe Biden has also approved the delivery of these missiles, recognizing their strategic importance for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
The Biden administration had previously held back on sending these missiles, fearing that it could escalate the conflict. However, amid warnings that Russia could turn the tide of the war, the US has now decided to provide them to Ukraine. US Joint Chiefs of Staff vice chairman Christopher Grady expressed confidence that Ukraine will use these missiles effectively to disrupt Russian operations.