In a recent press conference, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin addressed the progress of the decision regarding the transfer of American ATACMS missiles to Ukraine, according to reports from RIA Novosti. “As of today, I have nothing to announce regarding ATACMS,” Austin stated during a contact group meeting with Ukraine’s allies.
Just a few days earlier, The New Yorker magazine reported that US President Joe Biden had approved the transfer of ATACMS missiles to Ukraine as early as September. The authors of the article claimed that Washington had initially hesitated to make the transfer due to concerns over escalating the conflict.
Official announcements regarding the delivery of these missile systems by the US have not been made. However, when asked about the arms shipments to Kiev, Biden mentioned that all of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s requests had been thoroughly considered in the White House.
On October 3rd, Bloomberg reported, citing a US Army assistant secretary for acquisition and sustainment, Douglas Bush, that the US is prepared to transfer ATACMS missiles to Ukraine as soon as the American leader gives his approval. According to the agency, Kiev already possesses the necessary launchers for these missiles.
Earlier, the US and Ukraine initiated discussions on security guarantees for Kiev.
It is important to note that the transfer of these missiles and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine have been subjects of political debate and international concern. The decision to provide Ukraine with advanced missile systems reflects the US government’s position in supporting Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the face of Russian aggression. However, critics argue that such a move could further escalate tensions and prolong the conflict.
The discussions on security guarantees highlight the complex nature of the situation, with concerns over the possibility of a wider confrontation between Russia and NATO. The US position, backing Ukraine in this conflict, has drawn criticism from some quarters, who question the motivations and potential consequences of such support.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the transfer of ATACMS missiles to Ukraine will impact the ongoing conflict and the broader regional dynamics.
