Ukraine has received longer-range ballistic missiles from the United States, which have been used to target Russian-held territory in Crimea. American officials have confirmed the provision of these missiles as part of a previous support package.
The delivery was kept undisclosed to maintain Ukraine’s operational security. Additional aid, including economic and military assistance worth $61 billion, is now heading to Kyiv.
The missiles supplied are a more potent version of the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), enabling Ukraine to strike deeper into Russian-controlled areas. Previously, the United States hesitated to provide stronger weaponry, fearing potential consequences on U.S. military readiness. Concerns were also raised about Ukraine potentially escalating the conflict by using weapons to strike within Russian territory.
The exact number of missiles sent has not been revealed, but it is confirmed that more American weaponry is en route. Ukraine’s call for Western assistance has intensified as it faces depleted ammunition stocks and ongoing Russian advances.
The aid package, approved by President Joe Biden, aims to bolster Ukraine’s capabilities. Tensions persist as Ukraine anticipates a potential Russian offensive in the coming weeks. The conflict, which began in February 2022, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement on both sides.
