Biden Allows Ukraine To Strike Inside Russia With US Missiles

Posted by: lukwago J in World news November 18, 2024

In a significant shift of policy, US President Joe Biden has granted permission for Ukraine to utilize long-range missiles provided by the US to target Russia. This move, confirmed by a US official to CBS, marks a departure from previous restrictions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has persistently advocated for the lifting of limitations on these missiles, known as ATACMS, enabling Kyiv to engage beyond its borders.

Zelensky responded to the reports by stating, “such things are not announced, missiles speak for themselves.” Russian President Vladimir Putin had cautioned Western nations against this action, viewing it as direct involvement by NATO in the conflict in Ukraine.

While Putin had not directly commented on the recent reports, senior Kremlin figures viewed it as a serious escalation.

The decision by Washington regarding ATACMS is framed as a measure to defend Ukrainian forces operating in Russia’s Kursk region, where Kyiv initiated a surprise incursion in August.

Essentially, the Biden administration signals support for Ukraine to maintain control over the small portion of Russian territory it presently holds, as a strategic leverage for potential future negotiations.

Chairman of the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Centre, Serhiy Kuzan, emphasized the significance of Biden’s decision, stating it will enhance the country’s military capabilities.

While not a game-changer in the conflict, Kuzan believes it will help level the playing field for Ukrainian forces. The ATACMS missiles have a range of up to 300km and were approved by Biden in response to Russia’s allowance of North Korean soldiers to engage in Ukraine.

This decision anticipates an impending assault by Russian and Korean troops aimed at displacing Ukrainian forces from the Kursk region.

International support and ongoing conflict

President Biden’s approval will also pave the way for Britain and France to grant Ukraine authorization to use long-range Storm Shadow missiles within Russian territory.

Zelensky previously confirmed the use of US-supplied long-range missiles to target Russian positions in eastern Ukraine.

The conflict has seen Ukraine fend off advancing Russian troops in the Donetsk region, particularly towards the critical city of Pokrovsk. Moscow has intensified drone strikes, with over 2,000 launched in October, setting a record in the ongoing war.

Recent hostilities saw Russia conduct a substantial coordinated assault, resulting in casualties. Attacks continued in the Sumy region, near the Russian border, claiming lives including children.

Ukrainian officials reported a drone attack by Russia in the Bryansk border region, with several drones intercepted. Ukraine has voiced the need for increased support from allies to bolster its defense capabilities.

Biden’s efforts to expedite aid to Ukraine before his term ends reflect concerns regarding potential shifts in policy under the incoming administration.

The US has been a primary arms supplier to Ukraine, delivering significant military aid. Concerns persist over the continuity of support under the next administration.

President-elect Donald Trump’s stance on military aid remains uncertain, with implications for the ongoing conflict.

Trump’s perspective on the resource allocation for military assistance and his plans to end the war without detailed strategies pose challenges for the future trajectory of US-Ukraine relations.

Check also;

This is not a Paywall, but Newslex Point's journalism consumes a lot of time, hard-work and money. That's why we're kindly requesting you to support us in anyway they can, for as little as $1 or more, you can support us .

Please use the button below to contribute to Newslex Point, Inc. using a credit card or via PayPal.