The Bottom Line Upfront
The United States has supplied Ukraine with long-range tactical ballistic missiles known as ATACMS, which have a range of up to 300 kilometers, nearly doubling Ukraine's striking distance.
The Breakdown
These missiles were sent as part of the $300 million military aid package provided by the US to Ukraine, and they were used by Ukraine against Russian targets in Crimea.
- The US had added more of the newer version of ATACMS to its stockpiles earlier this year, allowing them to send Ukraine some of the older versions.
- The provision of long-range ballistic missiles to Ukraine by the US significantly enhances Ukraine's military capabilities and allows them to strike targets at a greater distance, increasing their deterrence against Russian aggression
- Ukrainian forces have used the ATACMS missiles against Russian targets in Crimea.
- The US had not initially announced the provision of these missiles to maintain operational security for Ukraine, as per their request.
- The US decision to provide ATACMS missiles to Ukraine came in response to Russia's use of North Korean ballistic missiles against Ukraine.
- These missiles will help Ukraine deny Russia haven anywhere in occupied Ukrainian territory.
- Ukraine has received long-range ballistic missiles from the US, which have a range of up to 300 kilometers. These missiles were used by Ukraine against Russian targets in Crimea.