(Reuters) – Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced on Tuesday that Kyiv has utilized long-range Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles provided by the United States. The Ukrainian government has been requesting ATACMS missiles from the U.S. administration in order to enhance their capacity to attack and disrupt supply lines, air bases, and rail networks in territories occupied by Russia, which are out of range for their short-range equipment.
In his nightly address, President Zelenskiy expressed his gratitude to the United States, stating, “Today, special thanks to the United States. Our agreements with President Biden are being implemented. Very accurately – ATACMS missiles proved themselves.”
This announcement marks the first confirmed usage of ATACMS missiles in Ukraine. These missiles are capable of flying up to a distance of 190 miles (306 km).
Earlier on Tuesday, the Ukrainian military reported that they had targeted two airfields used by Russia in the occupied cities of Luhansk and Berdiansk. The attacks resulted in the destruction of nine helicopters, an air defense missile launcher, and other equipment. The runways were also impacted, causing significant losses for Russian forces. The Defense Ministry of Russia has not mentioned these attacks in their statements.
Yuliia Dysa reported this story for Reuters. The article was edited by Alex Richardson and Alexandra Hudson.
