Title: US Secretly Provides Ukraine with Long-Range Missiles Amid Tensions with Russia
In a covert operation, the United States government has secretly supplied Ukraine with long-range ATACMS missiles, a move seen as a significant show of support to the country amid escalating tensions with Russia. The ATACMS missiles, known for their maximum range of approximately 186 miles, have already been used by Ukraine to strike Russian targets.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed profound gratitude for the US support, acknowledging the critical role these missiles play in defending Ukraine’s sovereignty. The US, however, clarified that it provided only cluster munition-carrying missiles, not warheads, to ensure the responsible use of this firepower.
The transfer of missiles does not compromise the readiness of the US military, as confirmed by US officials. President Joe Biden himself signed off on the transfer in mid-September, with the intention of surprising the Russians and bolstering Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
This is not the first secret delivery of weapons from the US to Ukraine. The US has delivered weapons covertly in the past, demonstrating its commitment to Ukraine’s security in the face of Russian aggression. Previous hesitation in providing long-range missiles waned due to Ukraine’s responsible use of other US-provided weapons.
President Zelensky had specifically requested the ATACMS during a September meeting with President Biden, underscoring the urgency and importance of strengthening Ukraine’s military capabilities. However, it is worth noting that the recent announcement of a new aid package to Ukraine does not include the ATACMS missiles.
Currently, the maximum range of US weapons committed to Ukraine stands at 93 miles. The ATACMS missiles are fired from HIMARS rocket launchers, which Ukraine already employs, leading to seamless integration into the Ukrainian defense systems.
The secret provision of long-range ATACMS missiles demonstrates the United States’ unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. These missiles not only symbolize the strengthening of Ukraine’s defense capabilities but also serve as a loud message to Russia that the international community stands united in safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty.
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