The US has supplied Ukraine with long-range ATACMS missiles, which have been used to strike Russia’s S-400 air defense launchers in Crimea. This has the potential to render Crimea “militarily worthless” to Russia, according to military analyst Philip Karber. The delivery of ATACMS to Ukraine is seen as a significant breakthrough in their fight against Russian forces in the region, as the missiles have a range of about 190 miles, putting high-value targets within reach.
Crimea, which was occupied by Russia in 2014, is crucial to Russia’s military strategy in Ukraine. The region is heavily fortified and houses the advanced port of Sevastopol, the headquarters of the Black Sea Fleet. It also serves as a logistics hub and military supply route to southern Ukraine. In the past, Ukraine has targeted Crimea using various weapons, weakening Russia’s military presence in the region. However, ATACMS missiles offer a key advantage over other weapons, as they travel much faster, making them more effective in striking high-value targets such as the S-400 air defense launchers.
Recent reports suggest that Ukraine has already used ATACMS missiles to strike the Dzhankoi military base in northern Crimea, including an S-400 air defense launcher. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has pointed to ATACMS as a key weapon for targeting Crimean airfields, stating that the threat of these missiles will deter Russian attacks from Crimea. Zelenskyy also referenced the success of pushing Russian forces out of Ukrainian territorial waters, expressing confidence that they will now be able to push them out of airports in Crimea as well.
Ukraine’s use of ATACMS missiles highlights the escalating conflict between Ukrainian and Russian forces in the region. The delivery of these powerful missiles by the US underscores American support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. The strategic use of ATACMS missiles to target high-value assets in Crimea demonstrates Ukraine’s determination to defend its sovereignty and push back against Russian military presence in the region.
The ability of ATACMS missiles to strike high-value targets in Crimea poses a significant threat to Russia’s military capabilities in the region. The potential to render Crimea “militarily worthless” to Russia could have far-reaching implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As tensions continue to escalate, the US’s support for Ukraine through the provision of advanced weapons like ATACMS underscores the importance of international alliances and strategic partnerships in addressing regional security challenges.
In conclusion, the delivery of long-range ATACMS missiles to Ukraine represents a significant development in the conflict with Russia over Crimea. The strategic use of these powerful weapons to target high-value assets in the region has the potential to weaken Russia’s military presence and disrupt its operations in Crimea. As Ukraine continues to defend its sovereignty and push back against Russian aggression, the support of the US and other international partners will be crucial in deterring further conflict and promoting stability in the region.
