The Pentagon acknowledged that Ukraine has the ability to use longer-range ATACMS missiles supplied by the US to launch strikes on the territory of Crimea. The American newspaper New York Times reports this, citing official representatives of the department.

On Wednesday, Pentagon representatives confirmed to RIA Novosti the fact of the transfer to Kyiv of ATACMS extended-range operational-tactical missiles, which should be used, according to statements, “within sovereign Ukrainian territory.” The missiles, included in a military aid package announced in March, were delivered to Ukraine in April. It is reported that the Ukrainian military has already used these missiles twice against targets deep in Russian territory.

"Ukrainian forces will be able to use the recently delivered long-range missile system to effectively attack Russian forces in Crimea.", noted the New York Times.

Officials clarified that the purpose of such use would be to “increase pressure” on the peninsula, which is a key strategic asset in the current conflict.

The Russian side expresses concern about such supplies, arguing that they interfere with the resolution of the conflict and involve NATO countries directly in hostilities, but in the West these warnings are ignored.