Russia has issued a stern warning following President Joe Biden’s decision to approve the use of long-range US ATACMS missiles against Russian targets
This policy shift, announced two months before Biden’s term ends, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which recently reached its 1,000th day.
A Major Policy Shift
For much of the war, Ukraine’s Western allies, including the US, France, and the UK, provided advanced missile systems like the ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) and Storm Shadow missiles. However, they had restricted Ukraine from using these weapons to strike Russian territory.
Biden’s decision to lift these restrictions signals a major change in strategy. While it is unclear if President-elect Donald Trump was consulted, Biden’s approval emphasizes a robust stance against Russia’s continued aggression.
Russia’s Response
In a strongly worded statement, Russia’s foreign ministry warned that any strikes on its territory using US-provided missiles would provoke “an appropriate and tangible response.” Moscow also claimed that such attacks would signify direct US involvement in the conflict, accusing Washington of escalating hostilities.
The Kremlin has criticized the move, with President Vladimir Putin’s spokesperson calling it an act of “adding oil to the fire.”
The War’s Current Status
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began on February 24, 2022, and the conflict has since evolved into a brutal stalemate. Recent months have seen intensified Russian airstrikes on Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, causing widespread blackouts and civilian casualties.
Over the weekend, massive attacks targeted Ukraine’s power grid, leading to significant disruptions and fatalities. A Monday missile strike on Odesa resulted in 10 deaths and dozens of injuries.
The North Korean Connection
Adding to the tension, reports indicate the arrival of over 10,000 North Korean troops in Russia’s western Kursk region. Unconfirmed sources suggest North Korea may send up to 100,000 soldiers, along with artillery and other weaponry, to bolster Russia’s military efforts.
The US appears to be signaling its disapproval of this development. Speculation suggests the newly approved ATACMS missiles might initially be used in Kursk, potentially targeting the North Korean reinforcements.
Biden’s Legacy and Western Reactions
Biden’s decision to authorize the use of ATACMS has drawn mixed reactions. French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the move, calling it a “positive step.” Observers believe it could prompt France and the UK to allow Ukraine similar leeway with their Storm Shadow missiles.
Despite Biden’s bold stance, President-elect Trump’s position on the matter remains unclear. Trump, who has vowed to end the Ukraine war within 24 hours of taking office, has not commented on Biden’s policy shift.
Geopolitical Implications
The US approval of missile strikes on Russian territory underscores the West’s determination to support Ukraine militarily. However, the move also risks intensifying the conflict, with potential repercussions for global stability.
Meanwhile, China, a crucial ally of Russia, has called for de-escalation. Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged world leaders to pursue a political resolution, emphasizing the importance of cooling tensions in the region.
The decision to lift restrictions on long-range missile use marks a pivotal moment in the Russia-Ukraine war. While it aims to pressure Russia into reconsidering its military ambitions, it also raises the stakes for broader geopolitical tensions. With new leadership set to take charge in the US, the coming months will likely shape the future trajectory of this protracted conflict.
