Provision of ATACMS missiles will push Germany to provide long-range missiles — Motsyk

The provision of ATACMS missiles may prompt Germany to supply TAURUS missiles and other long-range weapons, stated Oleksandr Motsyk, a diplomat and Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States from 2010 to 2015.

He made these remarks on Hromadske Radio:

«If we receive ATACMS missiles, with a range of 300 km, from the Americans, it will serve as a significant argument for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Historically, Europe has often delayed the transfer of certain types of weaponry until the United States has provided similar arms. I believe this will undoubtedly encourage Germany to provide TAURUS missiles, potentially more Storm Shadow missiles, and other long-range armaments».

Motsyk emphasized that while Europe possesses weaponry, it’s crucial that these arms are not left dormant in warehouses, but rather utilized in Ukraine to safeguard it and the world from dictatorships and totalitarian regimes.

The diplomat also indicated that these weapons could potentially reach Ukraine by the week’s end, provided they are positioned near the border.

«American experts estimate it could take days rather than weeks or months, as numerous American weapons are stationed across Europe. The key lies in the swift passage of this legislation, enabling immediate weapon supply. If these weapons are proximate to the Ukrainian border, transit could take 2-4 days, facilitating their arrival in Ukraine», — Motsyk explained.

As a reminder, on April 20, the US House of Representatives passed a bill on foreign aid for Ukraine, with 311 members voting in favor and 112 against.

The draft legislation is expected to be presented to the Senate as an amendment to the Senate Foreign Assistance Bill HR.815, passed in February, streamlining the approval process.

The leader of the Democratic majority in the US Senate, Chuck Schumer, announced that the Senate would vote on the bill on Tuesday, April 23. US President Joe Biden has pledged to sign the approved aid bill into law.