President Joe Biden has given Ukraine permission to use U.S.-provided long-range weapons inside Russia for limited strikes, according to two U.S. officials. This decision comes in response to North Korea deploying troops to support Russian forces fighting Ukrainian troops. The authorization specifically applies to Army Tactical Missile Systems, which Ukrainian officials requested from the Biden administration. The U.S. had initially resisted this request due to concerns about limited stockpile and the effectiveness of other assets, such as drones, in the conflict. However, the change in policy occurred after Biden officials criticized North Korea’s deployment as a potential escalation of the war.
In May, Biden had also secretly given Ukraine permission to use American weapons to strike Russia just over the border. This represents a shift in U.S. policy, especially since President-elect Donald Trump has promised to reduce U.S. support for Ukraine and end its conflict with Russia. The U.S. has provided significant aid to Ukraine, making American support crucial for Ukraine’s defense against Russia. A withdrawal of this support could weaken Ukraine’s ability to resist Russian attacks. Recently, Russia launched a missile attack in Ukraine, resulting in casualties and severe damage to power infrastructure. The Pentagon and White House have declined to comment on these developments.
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