The undisclosed transfer of the missiles, part of US President Joe Biden’s $300 million aid package announced last March, has come to light as tensions escalate in the region.
Arriving in Kiev this month, the missiles have already seen action, with Ukrainian forces reportedly launching them against Russian targets in the occupied Crimea.
This clandestine maneuver follows President Biden’s recent approval of an additional $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, underscoring America’s commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
Previously, the US had provided Ukraine with the medium-range version of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), showing reluctance to deploy more potent missile systems.
However, a shift in strategy emerged last February when President Biden hinted at the possibility of clandestinely supplying long-range missile systems capable of striking targets up to 300 kilometers away.
Confirming the covert operation, US State Department spokesman Vedanta Patel stated, “I can confirm that long-range ATACMS missiles have been provided to Ukraine on the direct orders of the US President. This decision was intentionally kept under wraps to safeguard Ukraine’s operational security.”
While details regarding the exact number of missiles dispatched remain undisclosed, US National Security Adviser Jack Sullivan hinted at further deliveries, emphasizing the strategic significance of such aid. “Washington is planning to send more missiles, which will make a difference. But as I’ve said before, there is no silver bullet,” Sullivan remarked.
Recent media reports citing unnamed US officials revealed that the newly deployed long-range missile was utilized in a daring strike against a Russian airbase in occupied Crimea, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. Additionally, the missile reportedly played a pivotal role in an attack on Russian troops in the occupied port city of Bardyansk on Tuesday night, underscoring Ukraine’s resolve to defend its sovereignty against Russian aggression.
As the situation continues to evolve, the deployment of long-range ballistic missiles adds a potent dimension to Ukraine’s defense capabilities while further intensifying tensions between the two neighboring nations.
