US gives green light to Ukraine's deep-strike capability: What happens next?
Biden administration changes its stance on long-range weapons use against Russian targets. This shift comes as Ukraine holds position in Kursk region while facing increased pressure on multiple fronts
The White-house made a big-time policy shift letting Ukraine hit targets deeper in Russian territory (a move thats been in talks for months). Joe Biden lifted some limits on US-supplied weapons just before his terms end
Russian forces have been pushing hard in multiple areas with their fastest advance since the conflict started almost 3 years ago. Ukraine needs these long-range options to defend its position‚ but experts say its timing isnt perfect. “The decision comes late‚ and like other decisions in this vein‚ it may be too late to substantially change the course of the fighting“
Long-range strikes were always one piece of the puzzle‚ and had been overly freighted with expectations in this war
The policy shift might help Ukraine protect its foothold in Russias Kursk region; where they moved in last summer. Ukraine says theres about 50‚000 troops trying to push them out including some North-Korean fighters (which Russia hasnt confirmed or denied)
- ATACMS rockets can reach targets up to 190 miles away
- Storm Shadow missiles from UK and France could add extra punch
- Russian forces moved many air assets out of range already
- Missile numbers will decide real battle impact
This new freedom to strike might not last long - Donald Trump who takes over in jan-2025 has different ideas about helping Ukraine. His advisor Richard Grenell already spoke against this change. The Kremlin says this makes US a direct part of the conflict now
