Biden Approves Long-Range ATACMS for Ukraine to Target Russia: Major Policy Shift
US President Joe Biden has allowed Ukraine to use long-range missiles supplied by the US to target Russia. This change in policy comes after months of requests from Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky. He has pushed for the restrictions on ATACMS missiles to be lifted, enabling strikes beyond Ukraine’s borders.
Following the announcement, Zelensky remarked that “missiles speak for themselves.” Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously warned against such actions, indicating it would mean NATO’s direct involvement in the Ukraine conflict. Kremlin officials have called the move a serious escalation.
The Biden administration has positioned this decision as a defense measure, specifically regarding an incursion into Russia’s Kursk region. This strategy aims to bolster Ukraine’s control over a small area of Russian territory, potentially aiding future negotiations.
Experts like Serhiy Kuzan from the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Centre view Biden’s approval as significant but not decisive in changing the war’s course. ATACMS can strike targets up to 300km (186 miles) away. Reports suggest that Biden’s decision came in response to Russia’s moves to deploy North Korean soldiers to fight alongside its troops in Ukraine.
How might Biden’s new policy on ATACMS missiles impact future U.S. support for Ukraine?
Interview with Serhiy Kuzan on Biden’s New Policy for ATACMS Missiles in Ukraine
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us, Serhiy. The recent decision by President Biden to allow Ukraine to use long-range ATACMS missiles is generating significant discussion. What are your initial thoughts on this move?
Serhiy Kuzan: Thank you for having me. This decision is indeed a pivotal moment, reflecting a deeper commitment from the United States to support Ukraine’s defenses. However, while it is significant, I would not describe it as a decisive turn in the war’s overall trajectory.
Interviewer: President Zelensky mentioned that “missiles speak for themselves.” How do you interpret that statement in the context of Ukraine’s military strategy?
Serhiy Kuzan: Zelensky’s comment underscores the importance of effective military capability. These long-range missiles will enable Ukraine to carry out strikes beyond its borders, potentially targeting Russian supply lines and command centers. This could disrupt Russian operations and, as Zelensky suggests, demonstrate Ukraine’s resoluteness and capability.
Interviewer: What are the implications of using ATACMS against targets inside Russia? Russian officials have labeled this as a serious escalation.
Serhiy Kuzan: It certainly raises the stakes. The Kremlin has warned that any strikes into Russian territory could be viewed as NATO’s direct involvement, which could lead to unpredictable responses. However, this policy is presented as a defensive maneuver, particularly concerning incursions into regions like Kursk. This could serve to strengthen Ukraine’s bargaining position in any future negotiations.
Interviewer: You mentioned that the decision might not significantly change the war’s course. Can you elaborate on that?
Serhiy Kuzan: While the ability to strike at long range provides substantial tactical advantages, the conflict is multi-faceted. The outcome hinges on various factors, including troop morale, logistics, and continued international support. The ATACMS are a powerful tool, but they alone will not determine victory. Ukraine must continue to adapt its strategies on the ground.
Interviewer: There are reports that Biden’s decision was influenced by Russia’s actions, including the deployment of North Korean soldiers. How does this factor into the current military landscape?
Serhiy Kuzan: The involvement of North Korean troops signals a desperate measure from Russia to bolster its ranks, suggesting that they are facing significant manpower challenges. Biden’s response by allowing Ukraine access to more advanced weaponry illustrates the growing urgency to counter this development. It highlights that the situation is dynamic and the U.S. must respond decisively to any threats.
Interviewer: Lastly, with Biden preparing to leave office and concerns over the future of U.S. support for Ukraine, how might this affect strategic planning in Ukraine?
Serhiy Kuzan: The uncertainty surrounding future U.S. aid should be a significant consideration for Ukraine’s military planning. If support were to wane, it would necessitate a reevaluation of military strategies and objectives. Ukraine must continue to work closely with its allies, emphasizing the necessity of sustained assistance for its long-term defense efforts.
Interviewer: Thank you, Serhiy, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. Your perspective is invaluable as we navigate these complex geopolitical waters.
Serhiy Kuzan: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important matters.
Zelensky confirmed Ukraine’s use of US-supplied long-range missiles against Russian targets last month as it faces ongoing pressures in the Donetsk region. Russia has intensified drone strikes, with over 2,000 recorded in October alone—a new record.
In a recent large-scale attack, Russia launched about 120 missiles and 90 drones, resulting in multiple casualties. Attacks have continued, including a missile strike on a residential building near Ukraine’s border, causing further loss of life.
President Biden is pushing for expedited aid to Ukraine as he prepares to leave office in January. Concerns are mounting that his potential successor, Donald Trump, may reduce support. Since the war began, the US has provided approximately $55.5 billion in military aid to Ukraine.