Biden Approves Long-Range U.S. Missiles for Ukraine’s Strikes Inside Russia

The authorization to use the ATACMS comes as a response to Russia’s reported involvement with North Korean troops in the conflict. Officials say the weapons are intended to target Russian and North Korean forces in the Kursk region of western Russia. While Moscow has not confirmed the presence of North Korean troops, it has stated that its cooperation with Pyongyang follows a defense partnership agreement.

Up until now, Biden had relaxed some restrictions on American weapons usage by Ukraine but had not allowed strikes on Russian soil using long-range missiles. ATACMS, which have a range of approximately 190 miles (300 kilometers), are now cleared for use in the Kursk region, according to the report.

Despite this shift, sources suggest that the decision is more about sending a strong message to North Korea than offering a major advantage to Ukraine on the battlefield. Officials cited by The New York Times indicated that Washington does not expect this policy change to alter the trajectory of the war, although it may provoke a response from Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies.

The decision also comes as Ukrainian forces face significant challenges in their campaign in the Kursk region. Launched in August, the incursion has been plagued by logistical issues, including shortages of fuel and ammunition. Some Ukrainian units have even been forced to abandon their vehicles and proceed on foot due to a lack of supplies. Russian military estimates report that Ukraine has suffered over 32,600 casualties in the operation, with heavy losses in equipment, including 213 tanks, 136 infantry fighting vehicles, and more than 1,100 armored cars.

This policy shift by the U.S. raises the stakes in the conflict, potentially affecting the balance of the war and the broader geopolitical landscape.