The Biden administration has authorized Ukraine to deploy U.S.-supplied weapons in strikes reaching deep into Russian territory, marking a major shift in U.S. policy regarding the Ukraine-Russia war. The decision, confirmed by U.S. officials and sources familiar with the matter, follows extensive appeals from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to expand the operational scope of Western-supplied arms.
Ukraine Prepares for Long-Range Strikes
Ukrainian forces are expected to launch their first long-range strikes in the coming days, according to insiders, though details remain classified to ensure operational security. The advanced strikes will likely utilize ATACMS missiles, capable of reaching targets up to 190 miles (306 kilometers) away.
This policy shift addresses Ukraine’s growing need to counter escalating Russian advances. Recently, Russia deployed over 10,000 North Korean troops to bolster its military operations, heightening concerns in Kyiv and Washington.
Zelenskyy: “Actions Speak Louder Than Words”
In his nightly address, President Zelenskyy underscored the significance of this development, stating, “Strikes are not made with words. Such actions will speak for themselves.” While media reports have highlighted the U.S. authorization, Zelenskyy refrained from elaborating on the specifics.
Reactions and Warnings
The Kremlin has yet to respond directly but has previously warned that loosening restrictions on Ukraine’s use of U.S. weapons could be seen as a significant escalation. Russian officials, including Andrei Klishas of the Federation Council, expressed concerns over potential retaliation, claiming it could bring severe consequences for Ukraine.
U.S. officials remain divided over the decision’s impact on the war’s trajectory. Some believe this move will strengthen Ukraine’s negotiating position in potential peace talks, while others doubt it will dramatically shift the battlefield balance.
North Korean Troop Involvement Alarms the West
U.S. intelligence reports indicate that over 10,000 North Korean troops are now active in eastern Russia, with many engaged in combat in the Kursk region. These developments have further strained Ukrainian forces, which have faced personnel shortages and lost some ground in recent weeks.
Poland’s Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski applauded the U.S. move, linking it to the increased Russian-North Korean collaboration. “President Biden has responded decisively to this growing threat by lifting restrictions on Ukraine’s use of Western-supplied missiles,” Sikorski commented.
Political Implications in the U.S.
As the U.S. prepares for President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House, questions remain about whether he will maintain or reverse Biden’s decision. Trump has frequently criticized U.S. military aid to Ukraine, advocating for a swift resolution to the war without outlining specific strategies.
Congressional Republicans have welcomed the decision, albeit cautiously, noting that the change was overdue. Representative Mike Turner, head of the House Intelligence Committee, stated, “This is a long-overdue step that strengthens Ukraine’s ability to counter Putin’s aggression, even as we anticipate a new administration.”
Future Outlook
The removal of targeting restrictions is seen as a crucial step in addressing Ukraine’s strategic disadvantages. Alex Plitsas, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, noted that while the decision is significant, it arrives late in the conflict. “This should have happened sooner, along with the delivery of other critical assets like Abrams tanks and F-16s,” he said.
While Ukraine’s allies have supported its defense with weapons and financial aid, they have remained cautious about actions that might provoke a broader conflict or nuclear escalation. The international community now watches closely as Ukraine leverages this newfound capability to shift the dynamics of the war.
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