President Joe Biden has faced criticism for his decision to allow Ukraine to strike targets inside Russia with US-made long-range missiles. This move has been described as an “escalation” of the conflict by Moscow, with the Kremlin warning of a “tangible” response if these weapons are used.
The decision to ease limits on what targets Kyiv can strike using the American-made Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) has angered Russian officials. They believe that this move will only further escalate tensions in the region. The UK is also under pressure to follow suit with UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been advocating for permission to strike targets in Russian territory, arguing that he is fighting with his hands tied behind his back. The impact of these missiles may be more political than military, as Russian strikes are already being launched from beyond the range of the ATACMS.
Critics of President Biden’s decision, including allies of President-elect Donald Trump, have condemned the move as provocative and dangerous. The decision also comes as North Korea has entered the conflict by sending troops to bolster Russian front lines.
In response to these developments, the UK has indicated that it will align with its allies to ensure that Ukraine has the necessary capabilities to defend itself. However, the impact of these long-range missiles may be limited, as many key military targets have moved outside the range of these weapons.
Meanwhile, the situation on the ground in Ukraine remains dire, with Russian ballistic missiles causing civilian casualties and destruction in various parts of the country. Russia continues to push Ukraine’s army backward in the eastern Donetsk region while conducting devastating aerial campaigns against civilian areas.
Overall, President Biden’s decision to allow Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russian targets has sparked criticism and raised concerns about the escalation of the conflict. The international community is closely monitoring the situation as tensions continue to rise in the region.
