The United States has granted Ukraine permission to use ATACMS missiles to strike targets in Russia, Western media report. The move is an important turn in support for Kyiv in its war with Russia.
Characteristics of ATACMS missiles
- Range: up to 306 km (190 miles).
- Combat unit: 226 kg of explosives.
- Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin.
- History of use: first used in the 1991 Gulf War.
The previous versions of the missiles with a limited range of 165 km were first delivered to Ukraine in October 2023. New versions capable of reaching a greater distance have been used by the Ukrainian military since April 2024.
According to the New York Times, the missiles could be used against:
- Logistics centres of the Russian army.
- Airbases from which bombers take off.
- The Kursk region, where North Korean troops supporting Russia are stationed.
Geopolitical motivation
The US decision is aimed not only at supporting Ukraine, but also at responding to the deployment of North Korean troops in Russia. Analysts believe that this could also strengthen Kyiv’s position in possible future negotiations with Moscow.
Reaction of the international community
- Poland: welcomed the US decision, calling it “a response that Vladimir Putin understands”.
- Germany: refrains from providing Taurus missiles, despite Kyiv’s requests.
- UK: could follow the US lead by providing Storm Shadow missiles.
The Russian position
Russia condemned the decision as an escalation that, in the words of Vladimir Dzhabarov, vice-president of the Committee on International Affairs, “could lead to World War III”.
Russian President Vladimir Putin called this the actual “entry of NATO countries into a war with Russia”.
Political context in the United States
Joe Biden’s decision was made before the possible end of his presidential term. Donald Trump, known for his criticism of military aid to Ukraine, has not yet given clear signals about his actions if he returns to the White House.
Allowing the use of ATACMS missiles is a significant step by the US that could change the dynamics of the war, while causing a new wave of tension with Russia.
