Russia and Ukraine: Biden gives Ukraine the green light to target Russia deep with American missiles
US President Joe Biden has approved the use of long-range missiles by Ukraine to strike Russian targets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had requested this action for months, seeking to lift sanctions on ATACMS missiles, which can hit targets beyond Ukraine’s borders.
Zelensky remarked that “the missiles speak for themselves” in response to the news. Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that this decision could signal NATO’s direct involvement in the conflict. Although Putin has not yet commented on this specific approval, other Russian officials labeled it a dangerous escalation.
The US decision aims to limit Russian defenses in the Kursk region, where Ukraine launched a surprise attack in August. The Biden administration encourages Ukraine to retain control of occupied Russian territory as leverage in future negotiations.
Sergei Kozan, head of the Kiev-based Center for Security and Cooperation, stated that Biden’s approval is significant, making Ukrainian forces “more equal” against their opponents. ATACMS missiles can reach distances up to 300 kilometers, and US officials indicated that the approval was in response to North Korean troops potentially joining Russian forces in Ukraine.
How might the introduction of long-range missiles affect Ukraine’s overall strategy in the conflict with Russia?
Interview with Sergei Kozan, Head of the Kiev-based Center for Security and Cooperation
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Sergei. President Biden’s recent approval for Ukraine to utilize long-range ATACMS missiles against Russian targets represents a significant shift in the U.S. support for Ukraine. What does this mean for the balance of power in the conflict?
Sergei Kozan: Thank you for having me. The approval of ATACMS missiles is indeed a turning point. It enhances the capabilities of our forces, making them more equal against the larger Russian military apparatus. With a range of up to 300 kilometers, these missiles provide Ukraine the ability to strike at critical Russian supply lines and command centers, thus potentially altering the strategic landscape of this conflict.
News Directory 3: Ukrainian President Zelensky has emphasized the importance of these missiles, claiming “the missiles speak for themselves.” How do you interpret this statement in light of the ongoing conflict?
Sergei Kozan: Zelensky’s words reflect the urgency and necessity of such military support. The ATACMS allows Ukraine not only to defend its territory but to actively engage Russian forces beyond immediate borders. It’s a potent symbol of power that can lift the morale of Ukrainian forces while also serving as a signal to our allies about the seriousness of our situation.
News Directory 3: Russian officials have labeled this decision a dangerous escalation and hinted at NATO’s potential involvement. How do you view the risks that come with deploying long-range missiles?
Sergei Kozan: Any escalation in armament is inherently risky, particularly in a delicate geopolitical situation like this. However, it is crucial to understand that Ukraine is acting in self-defense against an aggressor that has shown willingness to disregard international norms. The concern from Russia may be more about their inability to control the narrative and the battlefield dynamics than about actual NATO involvement.
News Directory 3: The Biden administration aims to limit Russian defenses in areas like the Kursk region. Can you comment on the significance of this approach?
Sergei Kozan: Targeting Russian defenses directly is a strategy that can turn the tide of engagements. The surprise attack Ukraine conducted in August in that area proved that Russian defenses can be vulnerable. Striking key installations will not just weaken their military capability but also disrupt their operational logistics, which is vital for a sustained campaign.
News Directory 3: Recently, it’s reported that Russia has ramped up its drone strikes, with thousands launched just this month. How do you expect the introduction of ATACMS to influence Russia’s tactics moving forward?
Sergei Kozan: The increased use of drones by Russia signifies their desperate attempts to regain the upper hand. However, with long-range missile capabilities, Ukraine can shift the operational landscape. Our military may respond to drone threats with more aerial defenses while simultaneously launching counter-strikes against drone launch sites in Russia, thereby forcing a modification of their tactics.
News Directory 3: with the U.S. providing substantial military aid, there’s speculation about other nations like Britain and France following suit. What impact would European allies stepping up their support have on the conflict?
Sergei Kozan: Any increase in arms supply from NATO allies would be beneficial. It sends a united message of support to Ukraine and puts additional pressure on Russia. Greater cooperation among Western allies could deter Moscow from escalating further, as a more formidable, coordinated defense system emerges to protect our nation. It’s vital that we continue to leverage military support in tandem with diplomatic efforts to bring this conflict to an end.
Zelensky confirmed last month that Ukraine used a US-provided long-range missile for the first time against Russian targets in eastern Ukraine. The situation remains tense as Russian drone strikes have significantly increased, with over 2,000 drones launched in October alone. Recently, Russia conducted a large attack, killing at least 10 people.
The US remains Ukraine’s largest arms supplier. Between the start of the war and June 2024, the US has pledged $55.5 billion in military aid. Biden’s move to allow Ukraine to use long-range missiles may lead Britain and France to follow suit and provide their long-range Storm Shadow missiles as well.