The Biden administration is maintaining its current position on not sending long-range Army missiles to Ukraine, despite growing pressure from U.S. lawmakers and pleas from the Kyiv government. U.S. officials state that there has been no change in U.S. policy and that there have been no substantive discussions on the issue for months. The Pentagon believes that Ukraine has more pressing needs than the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) and that sending the missiles could undermine U.S. readiness for other potential conflicts.
The ATACMS is essential for Ukraine in targeting areas deep inside Russian-occupied Crimea. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested hundreds of these missiles. Ukraine has garnered support from its supporters in Congress, with lawmakers demanding that the Biden administration approve the transfer of ATACMS. British and French cruise missiles have already been supplied to Ukraine, with a range of about 140 miles, providing Ukraine with increased capabilities.
However, the Biden administration has expressed confidence that Ukraine will use these weapons responsibly and has emphasized that the recent supply of British and French missiles has further reduced the need for ATACMS. In terms of the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian forces are primarily facing challenges from minefields and defensive lines set up by Russia. General Mark A. Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, highlights that the slow progress in the Ukrainian offensive is due to the difficult task of clearing minefields.
In addition to limiting the use of the U.S. High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and Guided Multiple Launch Rockets (GMLRs), the ATACMS would provide a game-changing capability for Ukraine. These nearly two-ton guided missiles have been used by the U.S. Army in previous conflicts and are highly valued by Ukraine for their ground-launched capability. However, the limited number of ATACMS in the U.S. arsenal is a concern for the military. The Army has sold a significant number of these missiles to allies and partners over the years, leaving a restricted supply for potential future conflicts.
In conclusion, the Biden administration is facing mounting pressure to send long-range Army missiles to Ukraine, but it is currently maintaining its position due to concerns about conflicting priorities and potential implications for U.S. readiness. Ukraine continues to appeal for the transfer of ATACMS, emphasizing its importance in offensive and defensive operations. The recent supply of cruise missiles from European countries has lessened the immediate need for ATACMS. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is primarily hindered by minefields and defensive lines established by Russia. However, the limited number of ATACMS in the U.S. arsenal remains a critical issue for the military.
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