Biden Agrees To Let Ukraine Use Its Long-Range Missiles Deeper Within Russia

President Joe Biden’s recent authorization allows Ukraine to strike deeper into Russia using U.S.-supplied long-range missiles, marking a significant shift in U.S. policy.

At a Glance

President Joe Biden has approved Ukraine’s use of U.S. long-range missiles inside Russia.
The Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMs) will be involved.
This decision coincides with Russia allegedly deploying North Korean troops.
Questions arise over continued U.S. military support following Trump’s victory.

Shift in U.S. Policy on Missile Use

President Joe Biden has authorized the use of U.S.-supplied long-range missiles by Ukraine to carry out strikes deeper into Russian territory. This decision marks a noteworthy shift in the U.S. stance on military engagement in the ongoing conflict. The Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMs), known for its long-range capabilities, is expected to be deployed by Ukraine for these operations.

The authorization comes amidst troubling developments as reports have arisen of Russia welcoming North Korean troops to bolster its efforts against Ukraine. Such actions escalate the existing tensions and have triggered criticism from international observers.

Impact of Trump’s Election Victory

Biden’s decision follows the presidential victory of Donald Trump, generating uncertainty regarding future U.S. military support for Ukraine. Trump’s election has raised questions on whether the current administration will continue its commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression.

Many Western leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, have strongly encouraged deeper strikes inside Russia, a recommendation that Biden had previously resisted.

Biden authorizes Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied long-range missiles against Russia https://t.co/1HIiENzcLP

— TIME (@TIME) November 18, 2024

International Involvement

Meetings involving leaders from South Korea, Japan, and China came ahead of this decision, centering on the increasing involvement of North Korean troops in the conflict. In tandem, Russia launched significant drone and missile attacks targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, complicating the scenario further.

The United States has provided over $56.2 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since February 2022. However, the Biden administration has approached the provision of advanced weaponry with caution, often delaying such decisions.