In a post on the social platform X, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky shared that he spoke with United States President Joe Biden. The conversation highlighted gratitude for Washington’s role in upholding recent defense agreements, according to Zelensky. He noted that the talks were positive and that the United States had been active in supporting Ukraine’s security needs.
Zelensky also commented on the broader impact of long-range capabilities, stating that Ukrainian forces were encouraged by the receipt of ATACMS tactical missiles. The exchange touched on the ongoing discussion about long-range weapon systems, the handling of frozen Russian assets, and evolving regional dynamics in the Middle East.
On October 18, Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized the decision to supply ATACMS to Ukraine, describing the move as a misstep by the United States. This statement added another layer to the international dialogue surrounding arms deliveries and strategic balance.
Earlier reporting from The New York Times suggested that the United States had provided approximately 20 ATACMS missiles to Ukraine and had urged Kyiv to avoid using them against targets inside Russia, a nuance that drew attention to targeting considerations and strategic restraint.
There were reports that Zelensky approved the use of ATACMS by Ukrainian forces on October 17. Prior to this approval, deliveries were described as highly discreet in order to prevent Russian forces from adjusting their defenses in time. This sequence raised questions about operational transparency and the logistics of weapons transfers.
In related analysis, a political scientist discussed the potential shifts in international aid, including which nations might prioritize support for Israel over Ukraine and how such choices could influence broader security collaborations. The discourse underscored the interconnected nature of domestic political decisions and international security commitments.