President Joe Biden has confirmed that the United States will supply Ukraine with long-range missiles equipped with cluster munitions, according to U.S. officials cited by CBS News on Friday. These missiles, known as the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), boast a range of up to 190 miles and can be launched from the HIMARS mobile rocket launchers already in the possession of the Ukrainian military.
This decision follows an extended appeal by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who recently met with President Biden at the White House after attending the U.N. General Assembly earlier in the week. The discussions primarily revolved around the ongoing counteroffensive and the nature of U.S. support to Ukraine, as the conflict enters its 20th month.
Initially, American officials were hesitant to provide these missiles to Ukraine, citing concerns that it might deplete U.S. military readiness and potentially escalate tensions with Russia. Nevertheless, the ATACMS will empower the Ukrainian military to target Russian supply routes and command centers situated far beyond the front lines.
Sources indicate that the U.S. officials, who chose to remain anonymous, did not specify when the transfer of ATACMS would occur, and they also aim to keep the timing of their deployment under wraps.
It remains unclear which specific model of ATACMS Ukraine will receive, as there are multiple variants, some with shorter ranges than 190 miles. Britain and France have previously sent Ukraine long-range cruise missiles with a range of around 140 miles, starting in May and July, respectively. Notably, there were reports of Ukrainian missile strikes on a Russian naval base in Crimea, allegedly utilizing British or French missiles. Russian state media reported injuries resulting from the attack.
Coinciding with the meeting between the two presidents, the Biden administration announced an additional $325 million aid package for Ukraine. This package includes air defense munitions aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s capabilities against aerial threats from Russia.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking from New York City at the conclusion of the U.N. General Assembly, emphasized the ongoing dialogue with Kyiv regarding its needs. He affirmed the commitment to assisting Ukraine in its efforts to reclaim territory taken by Russia and assured that these discussions would continue to address Ukrainian requirements comprehensively.