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The Biden administration is contemplating the provision
of long-range cruise missiles, specifically Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff
Missiles (JASSMs), to Ukraine, marking a significant potential boost to Kyiv’s
military capabilities. This move comes as Ukraine continues its
counteroffensive against Russian forces, with the missiles offering the
ability to strike deep into enemy territory to target Russian forces more
effectively, particularly in heavily fortified areas with a range of 230-575
miles, depending on missile variety, JASSM-ER being the farthest-reaching.
The administration faces internal debates over the transfer of such advanced
weaponry. Handing over JASSMs would require overcoming technical and
logistical challenges, including ensuring that Ukraine has the necessary
infrastructure and training to deploy these weapons effectively. Concerns also
center around the potential escalation of the conflict and the risks of
sensitive technology falling into the wrong hands.
This possible move will likely provoke a strong reaction from Russia, further
straining U.S.-Russia relations. The Kremlin has previously warned against the
provision of long-range weapons to Ukraine, viewing it as a direct threat to
Russian security.
While the decision is yet to be finalized, it highlights the high stakes and
potential for further escalation in the region and possibly the world abroad.
Biden ‘open’ to sending long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine (Politico, 8-15-24)
Ukraine Strikes Inside Russia With U.S.-Made Missiles (The Wall Street Journal, 6-5-24)
Russia warns US of ‘fatal consequences’ over miscalculations in Ukraine (Politico 6-3-24)