Biden allows Ukraine to strike Russia with long-range US missiles

President Biden has authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied long-range missiles against threats inside Russia, marking a significant shift in U.S. policy. These Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) may initially target Russian and North Korean troops in the Kursk region. The decision follows Russia's integration of North Korean forces into the conflict.

Biden previously limited Ukrainian use of long-range weapons. The change aims to convey that North Korean troops are vulnerable, deterring further involvement. Some U.S. officials worry this could provoke a Russian retaliation, while others believe those fears are unwarranted.

As Ukraine faces a major assault, U.S. officials are concerned about their capacity to defend against simultaneous attacks.

Putin warned in September that a decision by the U.S. or its allies to allow Ukraine to use Western-supplied long-range missiles to hit targets deep inside Russia would be viewed as NATO's direct participation in the war.