On Sunday, multiple sources reported that President Joe Biden’s administration has authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-made long-range weapons to strike deeper targets within Russian territory—a significant shift in Washington’s approach to the ongoing conflict.
According to two U.S. officials and a source familiar with the decision, Ukraine plans to deploy ATACMS rockets, a U.S. tactical ballistic missile with a range of up to 190 miles (306 km), to target Russian military installations deep within Russia’s borders.
The decision marks a reversal of President Biden’s previous stance, following months of requests from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The shift is also believed to be influenced by the impending transition to Donald Trump’s presidency and growing concerns over Russia’s alliance with North Korea.
Sources stated that over 10,000 North Korean ground troops have been deployed to eastern Russia, with some already engaged in combat. Ukrainian forces have confirmed encounters with these troops, leading to the loss of some previously recaptured territory.
While Russia has not yet issued an official response, Vladimir Dzhabarov, first deputy head of Russia’s upper house international affairs committee, condemned the decision, warning it could escalate into World War Three and potentially leave Ukraine in ruins.
As for the U.S., some officials remain skeptical. However, others believe this decision could strengthen Ukraine’s negotiating position in any future peace talks. Senior Biden administration officials have stated they aim to use the remaining weeks of Biden’s presidency to bolster Ukraine’s ability to fight effectively or negotiate peace from a “position of strength.”
Meanwhile, Trump, who has claimed he can end the war, and his team have yet to directly respond to the policy change. However, Trump’s foreign policy adviser, Richard Grenell, criticized the move, accusing Biden of “escalating war.” Nonetheless, some Republicans have approved of Biden’s decision.
Representative Mike Turner, chair of the House Intelligence Committee, and other Republicans believe the U.S. must loosen additional restrictions on how Ukraine can use its weapons. Although they expressed frustration over the delay, they believe the decision will put pressure on Vladimir Putin and help Trump in his efforts to end the war.
