The Biden administration has granted Ukraine permission to use U.S.-made weapons for long-range strikes deep into Russian territory, marking a significant shift in U.S. policy on the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Announced on November 17, this decision reverses Washington’s previous stance of limiting Ukraine’s use of American weaponry.
The move follows repeated requests from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has sought more autonomy in targeting Russian military positions.
Ukraine is preparing to launch its first long-range attacks, with details withheld for security reasons.
The policy shift is largely a response to Russia’s use of North Korean ground troops, which has raised alarms in both Washington and Kyiv. U.S. officials confirmed that this escalation prompted the change in strategy.
In an evening address, Zelensky emphasized that the upcoming missile strikes would “speak for themselves,” stressing that actions, not announcements, are key.
The Kremlin has not yet responded, but Russian officials have warned that loosening restrictions on Ukraine’s use of U.S. weapons could escalate the conflict, with some lawmakers suggesting it could lead to “World War Three.”
The strikes are expected to be carried out with ATACMS rockets, capable of hitting targets up to 190 miles away.
While some U.S. officials question whether the strikes will alter the war’s course, they could strengthen Ukraine’s position in any future peace talks.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions in the U.S. Some lawmakers support the move as necessary, while others, including Trump’s advisor Richard Grenell, argue that it escalates the war.
Despite Zelensky’s requests, the U.S. had been reluctant to approve such strikes, fearing further escalation. However, the growing involvement of North Korean troops has influenced Washington’s shift in policy.
Critics argue that this action should have been taken sooner to support Ukraine on the battlefield.
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