Ukraine Sets Sights on Crimea with U.S.-Supplied ATACMS Missiles
Ukraine might target Russian positions in Crimea with ATACMS missiles, according to Pentagon officials. Following months of requests, Kyiv has been equipped with a version of these tactical missile systems that can reach around 217 miles. There have been reports in early April suggesting that Kyiv might aim for the Crimean Bridge.
7:38 AM EDT, April 26, 2024
The earlier ATACMS missile variants had a range of about 99 miles. The U.S. modified these missiles, concerned that Ukraine might launch attacks deep into enemy territory, which could lead to significant Russian retaliation.
The end of a safe haven
U.S. national security officials have indicated that the delay in weapon deliveries was intended primarily to bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. "The new system is capable of reaching deep into Russia-occupied parts of Ukraine and targeting logistical hubs for Russian forces in the southeast," reports "The New York Times".
"With the introduction of the new, longer-range systems, the aim is to exert increased pressure on Crimea - a central location for Russian air and land forces that has been relatively safe until now," commented a senior Pentagon defense official on Thursday.
Officials have not disclosed the exact number of long-range systems sent to Ukraine. According to "NYT" reports, the Biden administration covertly delivered these longer-range ATACMS to avoid provoking Russia. These missiles were included in a package announced in March, valued at 300 million dollars, marking the first new aid package for Kyiv since December.
"Ukraine utilized longer-range missiles last Tuesday to strike Russian forces in the port city of Berdiansk," stated a senior U.S. official.
The military airport in Dzhankoi, located in occupied Crimea, was also a target.
"What we can observe is that the deliveries to Ukraine have proven to be effective," remarked Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
The decision by President Biden in February to supply Ukraine with more than 100 long-range systems signifies a significant shift in policy, as noted by an American newspaper. Previously, the administration had been reluctant to send them, fearing their use might escalate the conflict with Russia.
Could the Crimean Bridge be the target?
"However, more than two years after Russia's invasion and subsequent occupation of Ukraine, Biden's stance has evolved," say officials from the administration.
The ATACMS missile might target the Crimean Bridge. "The Guardian" reported in early April about the main intelligence directorate's plans for a special operation intended to destroy the bridge, with actions expected to unfold in the first half of 2024, according to the newspaper.
