US struggles to keep up with demand of ballistic missiles to aid Ukraine: Report
US President Joe Biden
The United States lacks the capacity to furnish Ukraine with sufficient quantities of tactical ballistic missiles that could significantly impact its counteroffensive efforts against Russia, the Financial Times reported.
The newspaper also highlighted insights from various experts who questioned the potential efficacy of such weaponry in aiding Kyiv's counteroffensive.
Why US weapons aren't making much difference for Ukraine?
Because Ukraine, a former Soviet Republic, prior to the war with Russia, trained its armed forces to use Soviet-era weaponry it held in its reserve. Even if the Ukrainian side receives as many Western weapons, it's the limited duration of training (in the middle of a war) that makes the difference.
The Financial Times report while referring to unnamed American officials, also contended that the US lacks the production capability for the tactical ballistic missiles Ukraine has requested.
Furthermore, the report pointed out that concerns about escalating the conflict with Russia serve as a deterrent to Washington shipping such weapons.
The US officials reportedly cautioned that the scope of US military assistance might diminish as the 2024 presidential election approaches.
The potential for Republican Donald Trump's reelection further adds to the uncertainty, given his repeated commitmentto ending the conflict promptly upon taking office.
War fatigue appearing in the West?
Meanwhile, in Germany, another country from which Ukraine has sought long-range missiles, a recent survey by ARD-DeutschlandTrend revealed that 52 per centof respondents firmly oppose such deliveries, while 36 per centare in favour.
Also watch |Gravitas: Ukraine proves America's billion-dollar weapons are not invincible
Moscow has repeatedly cautioned Western nations against furnishing arms to Ukraine, asserting that such actions only prolong the conflict and involve them in a "proxy war" with Russia.
WATCH WION LIVE HERE
You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.