US Policy Shift Amid Escalating Conflict
In a significant reversal of prior US policy, President Joe Biden’s administration has given Ukraine permission to use American-made weapons to strike deep within Russian territory, according to US officials. This decision enables Ukraine to plan long-range attacks, expected to begin within days, to counter the recent deployment of North Korean troops to aid Russian forces. The White House and State Department have yet to comment on this development, and the Kremlin has not issued an immediate response. However, Russian officials have warned that this shift could provoke a serious escalation, with some suggesting it might lead to global conflict.
New Strategic Leverage for Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has been urging the US to lift restrictions on targeting within Russia, arguing that Ukrainian forces need the capability to strike strategic targets far from the border. Zelenskiy hinted at imminent action in a recent address, saying, “The missiles will speak for themselves.” The Biden administration’s decision to allow these strikes follows Russia’s latest advances and could support Ukraine’s negotiating position in potential peace talks. Kyiv’s military plans to utilize ATACMS rockets, which have a range of up to 190 miles, for these operations.
Concerns Over Escalation and Political Implications
Republicans in Congress and certain US military officials had been calling for a relaxation of US weapons-use restrictions. Although some officials remain cautious, stating it’s uncertain if this will alter the war’s course, others believe the move is overdue. Alex Plitsas of the Atlantic Council remarked that the decision “came way too late,” echoing concerns that earlier weapon supplies, such as HIMARS and F-16s, were also delayed.
Trump Administration’s Potential Reversal
With President-elect Donald Trump set to take office in January, it remains unclear if he will uphold Biden’s decision. Trump has repeatedly criticized US military aid to Ukraine and pledged to end the war swiftly, though without outlining specifics. Some advisers close to Trump, including Richard Grenell, criticized Biden’s escalation in his remaining term.
Meanwhile, Poland and other US allies have viewed this as a necessary step in response to North Korean involvement, which raised alarm internationally.