Ukraine Deploys Ballistic Missiles in Covert Move Against Russia
Ukraine has initiated the deployment of extended-range ballistic missiles against Russia, a covert supply facilitated by the United States, as confirmed by American officials cited by the BBC.
These armaments were dispatched as part of a previous American support package and arrived within this month. Authorities underscored that their covert introduction was aimed at preserving Ukraine's operational security.
Already, these missiles have been utilised at least once to target Russian assets in occupied Crimea.
Furthermore, additional American assistance is currently en route to Kiev.
With President Joe Biden's recent endorsement of a new $61 billion economic and military aid package for Ukraine, it is anticipated that more American armaments will be dispatched promptly. Confirming this, a State Department spokesperson acknowledged that the discreetly provided missiles constitute an extended-range variant of the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS).
While the USA had previously furnished Ukraine with a medium-range iteration of ATACMS, the decision to withhold more potent weaponry was influenced in part by concerns over jeopardizing American military preparedness.
Moreover, officials expressed apprehension that Ukrainians might employ these armaments to target Russian territory, potentially escalating the conflict, as initially reported by NBC.
Though the precise quantity of these armaments dispatched remains unclear, American National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan affirmed Washington's intention to send more. Emphasising the nuanced impact, Sullivan reiterated, "They will make a difference. However, as we have previously stated at this podium... there is no simple solution."
The extended-range ATACMS provides Ukraine with enhanced capability to target deeper into Russian-controlled territories, particularly bases, depots, and logistical centres.
Recent deployments included strikes on a Russian airfield in occupied Crimea, reported by the American press, and an assault on Russian troops in the occupied port city of Berdyansk, Tuesday night to Wednesday.
Russia, on Wednesday, downplayed the significance of the new weaponry, asserting that it "will not fundamentally alter the outcome" of the conflict.
In recent months, Kiev has escalated appeals for Western aid as its ammunition reserves dwindle and Russia maintains consistent advances.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
