Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed optimism after the US granted permission for Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russian targets. In his nightly address, he noted, "Missiles speak for themselves," emphasizing the significance of action over words. The approval allows Ukraine to utilize the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) to protect territories against an impending Russian offensive in Kursk, with boosted military efforts expected from North Korea.
Military experts in Ukraine recognize the potential for missiles to complicate Russian strategy, though many believe it won’t fundamentally alter the war’s trajectory. Maj. Volodymyr Omelyan noted that Ukrainians are encouraged by the news but dismissed Russian threats as “bluffing.”
Even with the positive outlook, some are disappointed by the tardiness of the decision. MP Inna Sovsun highlighted that earlier action could have mitigated the destruction of Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, MP Oleksiy Goncharenko emphasized that having sufficient missiles is key for the US decision to make an impact.
Moreover, MP Maria Ionova cautioned that while missiles are a strategic enhancement, they aren’t a "silver bullet." She stressed that a cohesive strategic shift is necessary to counteract the unified front of their enemies.
As winter looms and recent Russian attacks illustrate ongoing hostilities, Ukraine's reliance on missile support paints a complex picture of its ongoing struggle for survival.
