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Biden Approves Use of Long-Range US Weapons Inside Russia

Biden

President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to deploy American long-range weapons within Russian territory, marking a consequential escalation in the ongoing conflict. The decision, confirmed by two US officials, comes as nearly 50,000 Russian troops and thousands of North Korean soldiers mobilize in the southern Russian region of Kursk to counter Ukraine’s military efforts.

The weapons, identified as Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), are intended primarily for use in Kursk, a strategic area where Moscow seeks to consolidate its control. Russia aims to eliminate Kursk as a potential leverage point in future peace negotiations, a move the United States opposes. The US intends to bolster Ukraine’s ability to maintain its hold on the region for as long as possible, according to officials.

This development follows months of deliberation within the Biden administration over the risks of escalation versus the necessity of supporting Ukraine. Concerns about depleting ATACMS stockpiles and the long production times for the missiles initially delayed the decision. However, President Biden secretly approved the transfer of these powerful weapons earlier this year, with deliveries commencing in April.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had persistently lobbied for permission to use the missiles inside Russia. In a September meeting at the White House, Zelensky presented a detailed list of Russian targets as part of his broader strategy to gain an upper hand in the conflict. While Biden was initially hesitant, recent developments, including the involvement of North Korean troops in Kursk, appear to have influenced the administration’s decision.

Responding to the news, Zelensky stated on Telegram, “Missiles will speak for themselves,” emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously warned that any Western-supported attack on Russian territory could provoke a nuclear response, raising concerns about the broader implications of Biden’s decision.

The range of the ATACMS, approximately 200 miles, limits their ability to reach some of Russia’s most critical assets, including aircraft launching devastating long-range bombs. However, US officials argue that Ukraine’s growing drone capabilities complement these missiles, offering additional options for targeting Russian forces.

The long-term impact of this policy shift remains uncertain. It is unclear if the Biden administration will provide additional ATACMS from the remaining $7.1 billion in Presidential Drawdown Authority or if the policy applies only to the missiles already in Ukraine’s possession.

This decision underscores the Biden administration’s commitment to supporting Ukraine while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape. However, with a potential Trump administration on the horizon, questions about future US involvement in the conflict remain.

As the war continues, the inclusion of North Korean troops further complicates the dynamics, signaling a potentially dangerous new phase in the conflict.