As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia stretches on, the UK’s Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, has indicated a significant strategic shift on the part of Ukraine. In light of recent military aid from Western allies, Ukraine is poised to increase the frequency and effectiveness of its long-range strikes within Russian territory, potentially reshaping the war’s dynamics in Kyiv’s favor.
The British defence chief spoke to the Financial Times, highlighting that ” as Ukraine gains more capabilities for the long-range fight . . . its ability to continue deep operations will increasingly become a feature” of the war.” Radakin said such strikes “definitely have an effect.”
This comes at a time when the West, particularly the United States and Europe, have bolstered their military aid to Ukraine. After months of deliberation, the United States recently provided Ukraine with Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles with a range of 300 kilometers, although President Joe Biden specified that they should be utilized within Ukrainian territory.
Despite this caution from the US, the UK’s military chief does not share the same reservations. He conveyed an apparent approval of Ukraine’s strategy to conduct operations deep within Russian borders, diverging from the more conservative stance of US officials who have expressed concerns over potential escalations, including retaliatory actions and impacts on global oil prices.
Radakin’s assessment not only reflects a tactical evolution but also a broader, optimistic perspective on the conflict’s trajectory. He emphasized that “the danger with any snapshot is that it ignores where we are now with where we will be in next couple of years.” Radakin also said that people need to stop “feting Russia” and believing that it “somehow has got major advantages.” The UK has indeed stepped up its commitment, pledging increased defense spending and signing long-term contracts with defense suppliers to secure a steady flow of military aid to Ukraine.
With the West’s military support, including the recent $61 billion aid package passed by the US, Ukraine’s capacity to shape the conflict “in much stronger ways” seems to be solidifying.
Relevant articles:
– Ukraine is going to do even more long-range attacks on Russian soil, a key ally said. The US won’t like it., Business Insider, 04/26/2024
– Ukraine to increase long-range strikes in Russia, says UK defence chief, Financial Times, Thu, 25 Apr 2024 04:00:57 GMT
– UK defense chief: Ukraine to increase long, Euromaidan Press, Thu, 25 Apr 2024 13:28:05 GMT
– Britain believes Ukraine set to increase number of long-range strikes against Russia, Ukrinform, Thu, 25 Apr 2024 10:44:00 GMT
– FT: UK defense chief says Ukraine to increase long-range strikes in Russia, Kyiv Independent, Thu, 25 Apr 2024 05:34:08 GMT