In a significant policy shift, President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to utilize U.S.-supplied long-range missiles to target sites within Russia. This decision, reported by CNBC on November 17, 2024, marks a departure from previous U.S. restrictions aimed at preventing escalation in the ongoing conflict.
The authorization allows Ukraine to employ Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) against Russian military positions, particularly in the Kursk region, where Russian and North Korean forces have been operating. This move follows intensified Russian missile and drone assaults on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leading to widespread power outages and civilian casualties.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently advocated for the ability to strike at the sources of attacks rather than solely defending against them. The U.S. decision aligns with similar approvals from France and the United Kingdom, both of which have permitted Ukraine to use their long-range missiles for operations inside Russia.
The timing of this policy change is notable, occurring just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump is set to assume office. Trump has previously expressed intentions to reduce U.S. support for Ukraine, raising questions about the future trajectory of U.S. involvement in the conflict.
The inclusion of North Korean troops alongside Russian forces has further complicated the situation, prompting concerns about a broader escalation. Russian officials have warned that allowing Ukraine to strike within Russian territory could lead to a third world war, highlighting the delicate balance of international relations in this context.
As Ukraine prepares to utilize these newly authorized capabilities, the global community watches closely, aware that these developments could significantly influence the dynamics of the conflict and the broader geopolitical landscape.
