In a significant policy shift, President Joe Biden has authorised Ukraine to employ U.S.-supplied long-range missiles for strikes within Russian territory. This decision, announced on 17 November 2024, permits the use of Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) against targets inside Russia, notably in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces have been active since August.
The move follows recent escalations, including a substantial Russian missile and drone assault on Ukraine's power infrastructure and the deployment of North Korean troops to support Russian operations. Previously, U.S. policy restricted Ukraine's use of such weaponry to within its own borders to prevent potential escalation. However, the evolving dynamics on the ground have prompted a reassessment.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently advocated for the ability to target sources of attacks rather than merely defending against them. The authorisation to use ATACMS, which have a range of nearly 200 miles, enables Ukraine to strike deeper into Russian territory, potentially disrupting military operations and supply lines.
This policy change occurs just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. Trump has expressed intentions to swiftly conclude the conflict, though specific strategies remain undisclosed. The decision to permit Ukraine's use of long-range missiles may influence the conflict's trajectory during this transitional period.
The international community has expressed mixed reactions. Russian officials have issued warnings about potential escalations, while some Western analysts view the decision as a necessary step to counteract increased aggression from Russia and its allies. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for significant developments in the coming weeks.
Image: US Embassy Brasilia/Flickr
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