The US decision to quietly supply long-range ATACMS missiles to Ukraine has sparked a strong reaction from Russia. Russia’s ambassador to the United States called the move a “serious mistake” and warned it would have significant consequences.
This announcement comes as Ukraine confirmed that it had used these missiles successfully for the first time. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the ATACMS had proven their effectiveness and significantly strengthened Ukraine’s military capabilities. However, he did not specify where or when the missiles were used.
The United States stressed that these missiles would allow Ukraine to strike deep into Russian rear lines and significantly strengthen their military capabilities. However, Russia strongly condemned the move, saying the consequences would be serious.
Indeed, Russian sources claimed that the Ukrainian army had already used these missiles against Russian airfields. Ukrainian special forces said they carried out strikes on two airfields, destroying takeoff runways, helicopters, an anti-aircraft system and an ammunition warehouse. However, no images or independent confirmation have been released at this time.
This escalation in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia comes in a difficult context for Ukraine, which is trying to liberate the territories occupied by Russia and disrupt its logistics chain. Ukraine has long requested increased support from Western countries, particularly in the provision of long-range missiles, to be able to strike Russian rear lines. So far, these requests have been limited due to concerns that Ukraine could use them to directly attack Russia.
Pending further developments, it is clear that this decision to supply ATACMS missiles to Ukraine will have significant consequences for the ongoing conflict. Russia and Ukraine have been engaged in a territorial struggle since 2014, and U.S. involvement could shift the balance of power.