- November 17, 2024
- 9:19 pm
- World News
US President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine's use of long-range American missiles to strike inside Russia.
About this reports The New York Times November 17, 2024, citing US officials.
Until recently, Ukraine had ATACMS missiles, but the United States did not allow them to be used for attacks on Russian territory. However, now the situation has changed. In response to the entry of North Korean troops into the Kursk region, Biden changed his position and gave Kyiv permission to use long-range missiles to strike inside Russia.
“Previously, the US limited the use of these powerful missiles, but with the new move, Biden is actually giving Ukraine a tool for more aggressive actions deep inside Russia,” reports NYT.
Why did Biden change his position?
For a long time, US President Joe Biden feared that using ATACMS to strike Russia could lead to an escalation of the conflict. However, with the introduction of North Korean troops into the Kursk region, the Russian threat at the front increased significantly, which forced the United States to reconsider its decisions.
“Biden's authorization to use ATACMS is in response to the dramatic change in the situation when the North Koreans entered hostilities against Ukraine, which complicated the already tense military situation,” notes NYT.
How does ATACMS make a difference?
Previously, Ukraine was provided with HIMARS missile and artillery systems with a range of up to 80 km. But ATACMS missiles, with a range of up to 300 km, open up entirely new capabilities for striking key Russian and North Korean military targets.
| Weapon | Range | Purposes of application |
|---|---|---|
| ATACMS | up to 300 km | Attacks on military bases, warehouses, equipment in Russia |
| HIMARS | up to 80 km | Strikes targets closer to the front |
Prospects for the use of ATACMS
Immediately after receiving permission, Ukraine will be able to send missiles against large Russian and North Korean forces in the Kursk region. The missiles can destroy key military installations, as well as supply lines and logistics hubs on Russian territory.
“Now Ukrainian troops can not only defend themselves, but also strike deep into enemy territory, which will become a new stage in the context of the war,” emphasizes NYT.
Risks and consequences
Biden's decision will certainly have long-term consequences. This is a step towards more active involvement of the United States in the conflict and increasing pressure on Russia. On the other hand, such actions could lead to increased escalation and worsening relations between countries.
“The use of ATACMS could be perceived by Russia as an act of aggression, which will inevitably lead to a harsh response,” experts warn.
Conclusion
Biden's change of position and allowing Ukraine to use ATACMS missiles to strike Russia is a significant step in the context of the current conflict. Long-range missiles could change the course of the war, giving Ukraine new strategic options, but it also increases the risks of escalation. Time will tell what consequences this step will bring, but it is already clear that the US decision will have a huge impact on the development of events at the front.
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