US covertly delivers ATACMS missiles to Ukraine after prolonged hesitation
TL/DR –
The United States delivered long-range ATACMS missiles to Ukraine that were initially denied due to readiness concerns, according to the Pentagon. The missiles were approved by President Biden back in February and were quietly included in a $300 million aid package announced on March 12. The decision to send the missiles was prompted by Russia’s use of North Korean ballistic missiles against Ukraine and attacks on civilian infrastructure.
US Delivers Long-Range Missiles to Ukraine
The Pentagon confirmed that the US has dispatched long-range missiles to Ukraine earlier this month, fulfilling a directive from President Joe Biden which was previously blocked.
Secrecy Shrouds Missile Transfer
The transfer of long-range ATACMS missile systems for use within Ukrainian territory was secretly approved by Biden in February. The aid package, which included the ATACMS missiles, was quietly included in the $300 million aid announcement on March 12, said Pentagon spokesman Lt. Col. Garron Garn.
Resisting Delivery of Missiles
The Biden administration initially resisted shipping these powerful missiles due to readiness concerns. The missiles, produced by Lockheed Martin, require complex components and time to construct. Meanwhile, the US took steps to address these concerns, including purchasing more ATACMS missiles and replenishing US military stocks.
See Ukraine’s fragile front line on CNN.
Maintaining Armed Forces Readiness
“We managed to deliver ATACMS while maintaining our armed forces’ current readiness,” noted Pentagon spokesman Maj. Charlie Dietz.
Response to Russia’s Actions
The decision followed Russia’s procurement and usage of North Korean ballistic missiles against Ukraine, and attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, a US official stated.
More Aid on the Way for Ukraine
Following Biden’s recent law enactment for nearly $61 billion in assistance for Ukraine after Congress’ delay, the Pentagon announced more missiles would be included in a new military aid package.
Ukraine’s Need for Long-Range Missiles
Ukrainian officials have requested long-range missiles from the US to target deeper into Russian territory. The US initially resisted these requests due to supply issues and fear of further provoking Moscow.
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