President Joe Biden has recently allowed Ukraine to use long-range US-made Atacms missiles to target Russian and North Korean forces in the Kursk region of Russia. This significant decision aims to send a strong message amid the ongoing war, as North Korean troops have joined Russian forces in the conflict against Ukraine. This is a key moment in the war, showing how the situation is evolving and becoming more complicated.
Details of Biden’s Decision
- President Joe Biden has approved the use of Atacms rockets, which can travel up to 190 miles (300 km). These powerful weapons will help Ukraine strike Russian and North Korean positions within Russia’s Kursk region.
- The decision is reportedly in response to North Korea sending troops to support Russia. Estimates suggest around 10,000 North Korean soldiers have been stationed in Russia and could rise to 100,000 if the alliance strengthens.
Ukraine’s Response
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke about the news but emphasized that actions would prove the change, not words. He said, “Missiles will speak for themselves. They certainly will,” hinting at potential upcoming strikes.
- Ukraine has been facing immense pressure, especially with recent large-scale attacks from Russia involving drones and missiles. These attacks targeted energy facilities, causing severe damage to Ukraine’s power grid.
Reactions from Other Countries
- Poland’s foreign minister welcomed the move, saying, “President Biden responded in a language that Putin understands,” highlighting the significance of military power in this conflict.
- Russia, however, warned of serious consequences. Vladimir Dzhabarov, a senior member of Russia’s government, called the move “a very big step towards the start of World War Three,” indicating heightened tensions and potential risks.
Background: The Use of Long-Range Missiles
- This is the first time President Biden has permitted Ukraine to use US-supplied long-range weapons inside Russia. Previously, the US only allowed Ukraine to use shorter-range Himars missiles for defensive actions within Ukrainian borders.
- UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles are not included in this permission. Ukraine has expressed a desire to use these missiles to strike airbases that launch attacks on Ukrainian territory. However, the US has not approved this due to its policy on deep strikes into Russia.
North Korea’s Involvement in the War
- North Korea’s decision to send troops marks the first time since the Korean War (1950-1953) that it has actively deployed ground forces to support another country. This shows the growing military partnership between North Korea and Russia.
- The presence of North Korean troops in Kursk suggests that the conflict is expanding beyond its original players, adding new geopolitical concerns for the region and the world.
Recent Russian Attacks on Ukraine
- On Sunday, Russia launched one of its largest drone and missile attacks on Ukraine in recent months, aiming at critical energy infrastructure. This attack involved approximately 120 missiles and 90 drones, creating extensive damage and leading to nationwide energy rationing in Ukraine.
- Ukraine’s main energy supplier, Ukrenergo, announced power cuts and restrictions in all regions as engineers worked to repair the damaged infrastructure. This assault was the first major Russian strike after the US election, showing that Moscow’s aggressive stance remains unchanged.
International Reactions to the Missile Strike
- The French President, Emmanuel Macron, said the attack proved that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not ready for peace. He added that France’s priority would be to support Ukraine with military and logistical help.
- Donald Tusk, Poland’s Prime Minister, condemned the assault and stated that “telephone diplomacy” alone is not enough. He called for more substantial support from the West to help Ukraine resist Russian and North Korean forces.
- British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also expressed his concerns and mentioned the importance of the Indo-Pacific region’s security, given North Korea’s involvement. He emphasized the need for increased support for Ukraine, stating it would be a priority at the G20 summit.
Why This Decision Is Important
This move by President Biden marks a significant escalation in the US’s support for Ukraine. It shows a shift in strategy to allow more offensive actions by Ukraine in Russia. With North Korean troops now involved, the conflict is taking on a broader international scope. Allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles could change the course of the war, giving it new momentum but also increasing the risk of wider conflict.
