Ukrainian Commander Calls for Long-Range Missiles
As intense conflict escalates in the Donetsk, Kharkiv, and Zaporozhye regions, a senior Ukrainian military leader is urging the U.S. government to provide Tomahawk missiles. Maj. Oleh Shiryaev, who commands the 225th Battalion in northern Ukraine, emphasized the need for long-range missiles during an exclusive interview from a concealed location in the northeastern Sumy region.
“This war is the largest since World War II,” Shiryaev noted, underscoring that Ukraine’s struggle extends beyond merely resisting Russian aggression.
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Since Ukraine gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Russia has aimed to maintain control over the country. Ukraine’s resistance is drawing it closer to its long-cherished aspiration of full autonomy away from Moscow.
Shiryaev expressed confidence regarding the outcome of the conflict, stating, “For the past 300 years, our struggle has been about independence, and I believe we will prevail.” He believes that America’s long-range Tomahawk missiles could significantly enhance Ukraine’s ability to deter Russian advancements and gain leverage in peace negotiations.
John Hardy, a deputy director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, commented on the potential impact of these missiles, suggesting that improved long-range capabilities could escalate costs for Russia and disrupt their offensive strategies, thus offering a better chance for negotiations.
Interestingly, there have been mixed signals from U.S. officials. At one point, Trump suggested sending missiles if the conflict continued unresolved. However, he later indicated that the U.S. wouldn’t be supplying Tomahawks at this time.
The Tomahawk itself boasts a range of about 1,550 miles, allowing for strikes into Russian territory. Yet, given Ukraine’s current lack of naval capabilities, ground-launched systems would be essential.
The Biden administration has shown hesitance in providing offensive weaponry, wary of the potential backlash from Russia. Despite this uncertainty, Shiryaev remained resolute in his belief that Ukraine will continue to defend its sovereignty.
“Regardless of the types and quantities of weapons we receive,” he stated, “I am confident that our military will protect Ukraine. While Tomahawk missiles would be beneficial, we’ll utilize every available resource.”
Currently stationed in Sumy, a critical province bordering Russia, Shiryaev indicated that Ukraine has succeeded in halting Russian progress in this area. Recovering lost territories would be pivotal for any future negotiations, a priority for U.S. leadership.
Russia, employing a strategy likened to a “meat grinder,” has been gradually pushing forward on the front lines. Shiryaev explained that this tactic could lead to heavy casualties for Russia, especially in key locations like Pokrovsk.
“Any significant town or city will face intense fighting, and Russia will sustain extensive losses in manpower,” he warned. “Capturing Pokrovsk, for example, will come at a high cost for them, ultimately weakening their combat effectiveness.”
