Moscow, January 2 – Washington has allowed Ukraine to independently make decisions regarding the range of strikes from the HIMARS Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS), according to “Strana.ua” citing US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink. “The command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will independently decide on the range of strikes inflicted by the HIMARS rocket artillery systems,” the diplomat’s statement reads. Brink also mentioned that the White House plans to transfer these systems to Ukraine in the near future.
At the end of last year, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the delivery of the latest package of military assistance to the former Soviet republic, worth $250 million. This package includes ammunition for the NASAMS air defense systems, HIMARS MLRS, as well as 155mm and 105mm artillery shells, Javelin, TOW, and AT-4 anti-tank missile systems, and over 15 million rounds of ammunition for small arms. The White House previously warned that its available resources to support the Kiev regime were running out. There will be no new deliveries of weapons and ammunition until additional funding is approved by Congress.
In late 2022, when the first 20 HIMARS MLRS were transferred to Ukraine, US media reported that the systems had been modified to prevent the Ukrainian Armed Forces from using them for strikes deep into Russian territory.
This latest development signifies a significant shift in the US approach towards Ukraine’s military capabilities, granting them greater autonomy in decision-making for missile strikes using the HIMARS systems. The move comes amidst ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with the conflict in Ukraine’s eastern regions continuing to escalate.
The HIMARS MLRS is a highly versatile and effective weapon system, capable of delivering precision strikes against a range of targets. Its delivery to Ukraine demonstrates the US government’s commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defensive capabilities and supporting its sovereignty. However, critics argue that this move could further exacerbate the already volatile situation in the region and potentially escalate the conflict.
The decision to grant Ukraine autonomy in decision-making for HIMARS missile strikes is likely to draw both support and criticism from various factions. Supporters view it as a necessary step to counter Russian aggression and provide Ukraine with the means to defend itself. Critics, on the other hand, express concerns about the potential for miscalculations or unintended consequences that could further destabilize the region.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to unfold, the US government’s stance and actions regarding its support for Ukraine and its involvement in the region remain a topic of intense debate and scrutiny. The granting of autonomy in decision-making for HIMARS missile strikes adds another layer of complexity to an already complex situation, with potential implications for regional stability and international relations.
