In a significant development amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine has begun using long-range ballistic missiles provided by the United States against invading Russian forces, American officials have confirmed.
These weapons, part of a $300 million aid package approved by US President Joe Biden in March, arrived in Ukraine this April.
According to US media reports, they have already been utilised at least once to target Russian installations in occupied Crimea.
The newly deployed missiles are a longer-range version of the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), capable of firing missiles distances of up to 300km (186 miles).
President Biden had previously hesitated to send more powerful weaponry, citing concerns about potential impacts on US military readiness. However, he reportedly authorised the shipment of the long-range system in February.
State Department spokesman Vedant Patel confirmed the delivery, stating that the decision was made directly by the president and was not publicly announced initially to maintain operational security for Ukraine.
While the exact number of missiles sent remains undisclosed, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan indicated that more would be dispatched. He emphasised that while the missiles would have an impact, they were not a singular solution to the conflict.
Reports indicate that the longer-range missiles were recently employed to strike a Russian airfield in occupied Crimea and target Russian troops in the occupied port city of Berdyansk.
Ukraine’s urgent need for assistance has escalated in recent months as its ammunition stocks dwindle and Russia continues to make territorial gains. The new aid package, signed into law by President Biden, follows months of congressional gridlock and opposition to aid provisions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the aid, pledging to utilise it effectively to counter Russian aggression. He highlighted the need to act swiftly in the face of ongoing threats from Russia.
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which began in February 2022, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement of civilians.
Chioma Kalu
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