In a surprising turn of events, the United States has quietly sent the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) to Ukraine, a move that has been confirmed by a U.S. official. These long-range ballistic missiles, with a range of about 100 miles, were urgently needed by Ukraine and were promised by President Biden last month. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude towards the United States in a video address, stating that the agreements with President Biden are being implemented accurately, and that the ATACMS have proven themselves.
The delivery of the ATACMS was shrouded in secrecy, with the expectation that the first public acknowledgment would come when the missiles were used on the battlefield. This level of secrecy marks a significant change from previous U.S. weapons sent by the Biden administration, which were publicly announced prior to shipment. However, it is worth noting that not every weapon sent to Ukraine is listed in the official PDA announcement, according to the Pentagon.
Due to concerns about escalating tensions with Russia, the ATACMS version sent to Ukraine has a shorter range than its maximum capacity. The missiles carry cluster munitions, which release hundreds of bomblets when fired, making them effective in hitting multiple targets. Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces claimed to have successfully used the missiles in a nighttime attack on targets in eastern and southern Ukraine, destroying nine Russian helicopters and other military equipment and personnel at two airfields in Russia-occupied regions. Operation Dragonfly, as the attack was codenamed, resulted in dozens of Russian military personnel being injured.
The ATACMS will play a crucial role in Ukraine’s ability to hit the airfield in Berdyansk, which is within striking distance of the shorter-range version of the missile. The cluster munitions carried by the missiles will enable effective targeting of multiple objectives. The closest Ukrainian troop positions on the western bank of the Dnieper River are approximately 100 miles from Berdyansk.
It is important to note that the United States’ support for Ukraine comes at a time when tensions between Ukraine and Russia are high. This move is seen as a significant step towards bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russian aggression.
The Associated Press has reported on the U.S. shipment, citing their own sources. The article also mentions that the U.S. has concerns about escalating tensions with Russia, which may explain the shorter range of the ATACMS missiles sent to Ukraine. The report also highlights the successful use of the missiles by Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces in Operation Dragonfly.
The delivery of these missiles underscores the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with Ukraine seeking support from its allies, including the United States. It remains to be seen how this development will impact the dynamics of the region and whether it will lead to further escalations or potential negotiations.
Danielle Wallace is a reporter for Digital covering politics, crime, police, and more. For story tips, she can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter: @danimwallace. Stay updated on the latest from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews, and more political content by subscribing to this newsletter.
