What does Biden green signal to Ukraine to use long range ballistic missile mean

Introduction

President Joe Biden has made a significant policy shift by authorizing Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied long-range missiles to strike targets inside Russian territory for the first time. This decision marks a major change in the U.S. approach to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Key Points of the Authorization

Weapon System

The authorization specifically allows Ukraine to use the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), which has a range of approximately 190 miles.

Target Area: The initial focus is on the Kursk region in western Russia, where Ukrainian forces have been engaged in fighting.

Motivation

The decision was prompted by several factors:

Russia’s deployment of nearly 50,000 soldiers to the Kursk region

The involvement of North Korean troops in support of Russian forces

Concerns about the potential for Russian forces to dislodge Ukrainian troops from their positions in Russian territory

Timing

This authorization comes as Biden is nearing the end of his term, with President-elect Donald Trump set to take office in January.

Implications and Reactions

Escalation Concerns: Some U.S. officials worry that this move could provoke a strong retaliatory response from Russian President Vladimir Putin against the United States and its allies.

Allied Support: The decision may influence other NATO allies, such as the UK and France, to allow Ukraine to use their supplied long-range missiles (like Storm Shadow) in a similar manner.

Ukrainian Perspective: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been pressing for this authorization, arguing that it’s essential for Ukraine’s defense and ability to counter Russian attacks.

North Korea Factor: The authorization is partly aimed at deterring North Korea from sending additional troops to support Russia, by demonstrating that their forces would be vulnerable to these long-range strikes.

Conclusion

This decision represents a delicate balance between providing Ukraine with more robust defensive capabilities and managing the risk of further escalation in the conflict.

It also reflects the complex geopolitical considerations at play, including the involvement of North Korea and the impending change in U.S. leadership