US officials have not yet decided on the potential delivery of ATACMS long-range tactical ballistic missiles to Kiev. This development was reported by TASS, citing a Pentagon spokesman who emphasized that no formal decision had been made and no announcement about security assistance was forthcoming at the moment. The absence of a definitive stance reflects a careful assessment process within the U.S. government, taking into account strategic, operational, and diplomatic considerations before any firm commitment can be publicized.
Earlier, the official representative of Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry, Oleg Nikolenko, signaled that negotiations were underway about the supply of long-range ATACMS missiles to Kyiv. He indicated that progress was being made and that deliveries could arrive shortly if discussions remain on track. The Ukrainian side has repeatedly underscored the importance of long-range missiles for deterrence and defense, framing the potential support as a component of broader security assistance designed to counter ongoing regional threats.
On September 11, a spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, Matthew Miller, stated that officials were still weighing the possibility of providing ATACMS long-range missiles to Ukraine. This admission highlighted the ongoing internal deliberations within Washington and underscored that any decision would consider a wide range of factors, including regional stability, alliance cohesion, and the risk of escalation with adversaries in the region.
Military analysts note that the United States has paused its decision on long-range ATACMS deliveries in part due to concerns about how Russia might react. The potential for escalation, including the risk of retaliatory posture shifts or increased aggression in other theaters, weighs heavily in the evaluative process. Experts also point to questions about the broader implications for strategic deterrence, alliance commitments, and the steadiness of long-term security guarantees for Ukraine.
Previous statements from U.S. officials have acknowledged Russia’s capacity to strike or disable precision missiles, which adds another layer of complexity to the decision. Assessments consider not only the immediate military effects of ATACMS deployments but also the larger diplomatic signals they send to both allies and adversaries. The aim is to balance the practical needs of Ukraine’s defense with the desire to maintain strategic stability and prevent unintended consequences that could complicate the broader security landscape.
Throughout the discussion, Kyiv has continued to stress the strategic value of long-range missiles in deterring aggression and ensuring that Ukrainian forces can operate with a credible defensive posture. At the same time, Washington remains attentive to the potential ripple effects across the region, seeking to preserve coalition unity and avoid actions that could tilt the balance of power or provoke a broader confrontation. As the positions of the parties evolve, observers anticipate further clarifications from both Washington and Kyiv, with any announcements likely framed within a comprehensive security package and a carefully calibrated diplomatic approach to the conflict’s dynamics.