Washington, D.C. – The Biden administration recently delivered long-range missiles to Ukraine, marking a significant shift in policy. The decision to supply the missiles came after careful consideration and discussions within the administration.
These missiles, known as ATACMS, were part of a $300 million aid package announced in March and were quietly delivered earlier this month. The Biden administration had initially hesitated to send the missiles due to concerns about readiness and operational security.
Despite these concerns, the administration ultimately decided to provide Ukraine with the new capability. The move was seen as a strategic response to Russia’s actions, including the procurement and use of North Korean ballistic missiles against Ukraine.
The decision to supply Ukraine with long-range missiles was also influenced by Russia’s attacks on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. The administration believed that providing Ukraine with this capability would help deter further aggression from Russia.
In addition to the recent delivery of long-range missiles, the Pentagon announced a new military assistance package for Ukraine. This package, which includes more ATACMS missiles, comes after months of delays in Congress and provides nearly $61 billion in assistance for Ukraine.
The decision to supply Ukraine with long-range missiles represents a significant escalation in support for the country. Ukrainian officials have long sought these missiles to target deeper behind Russian lines, and the administration’s decision reflects a shift in policy towards providing Ukraine with more advanced military capabilities.
Overall, the delivery of long-range missiles to Ukraine highlights the Biden administration’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of ongoing aggression from Russia. The move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses and deter further aggression in the region.