Washington Authorizes Kyiv to Use ATACMS Missiles Inside Russian Territory

Washington Authorizes Kyiv to Use ATACMS Missiles Inside Russian Territory
The timing of the US decision reveals an attempt to strengthen Ukraine's position before Trump takes power, despite fears of potential Russian reactions
November 17, 2024, 9:32 pm

US officials reported that President Joe Biden has granted Ukraine permission to use American long-range ATACMS missiles inside Russian territory for the first time. Officials indicated potential targeting of Russian and North Korean forces stationed in the Kursk region of western Russia.

The New York Times noted that the authorization to use the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) comes in response to the unexpected involvement of North Korean forces in the battles.

Officials downplayed this shift making a fundamental change in the conflict's course, explaining that the main goal is to warn Pyongyang about the risks of sending more forces. Officials highlighted the possibility of expanding the use of these weapons with Biden's permission, beyond the Kursk region.

Opinions within the US administration were divided between those fearing a violent Russian response against Washington and its allies, and others minimizing these concerns. Biden's decision marks a radical shift in US policy two months before President-elect Donald Trump, who pledged to reduce support for Ukraine, takes office.

The Russian army is preparing for a large-scale attack involving 50,000 fighters, including North Korean forces, to recapture Ukrainian positions in Kursk. ATACMS missiles allow Kyiv to target force concentrations, equipment, supply centers, and ammunition in the Russian depth, which could weaken the effectiveness of the anticipated attack.

Providing Ukraine with these missiles has been controversial since the Russian invasion in February 2022, with Pentagon officials opposing delivery due to limited US inventory.

The White House was reserved fearing Putin would expand the war's scope, while hardline Moscow policy supporters accuse the Biden administration of being influenced by rigid Russian rhetoric, considering that the gradual arming of Ukraine weakened its military position.

Levant-Agencies

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