In a significant development amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine has begun using long-range ballistic missiles provided by the United States against invading Russian forces, US officials confirmed.

These weapons, part of a $300 million aid package approved by US President Joe Biden in March, arrived in Ukraine in April of this year.

According to American media reports, they have already been used at least once against Russian facilities in occupied Crimea.

The newly deployed missiles are a longer-range version of the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), capable of firing missiles at ranges of up to 300 kilometers (186 miles).

President Biden had previously hesitated to send more powerful weaponry, citing concerns about possible impacts on U.S. military readiness. However, he reportedly authorized shipment of the long-range system in February.

State Department spokesman Vedant Patel confirmed the handover and stated that the decision was made directly by the president and was not initially announced publicly to maintain Ukraine’s operational security.

While the exact number of missiles shipped has not been revealed, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan indicated more would be sent. He stressed that while missiles would have an impact, they were not a one-size-fits-all solution to the conflict.

Reports indicate that the longer-range missiles were recently used to attack a Russian airfield in occupied Crimea and attack Russian troops in the occupied port city of Berdyansk.

Ukraine’s urgent need for assistance has increased in recent months as its ammunition stockpile dwindles and Russia continues to make territorial gains. The new relief package, signed into law by President Biden, follows months of congressional gridlock and opposition to the relief provisions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the aid and promised to use it effectively to counter Russian aggression. He stressed the need to act quickly in the face of continued threats from Russia.

The conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which began in February 2022, has caused significant casualties and displacement of civilians.

Chioma Kalu

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