Biden OKs Ukraine to use US-supplied long-range missiles for strikes inside Russia
US President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to use American-supplied long-range missiles, allowing strikes deeper into Russian territory, marking a significant shift in US policy. The decision comes amid escalating tensions as Russia deploys thousands of North Korean troops to bolster its war efforts and intensifies drone and missile strikes on Ukraine.
Biden's approval of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMs) follows persistent lobbying by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Western allies. They argue that previous US-imposed restrictions on missile use hindered Ukraine's ability to counter Russian aggression effectively. However, Biden had been cautious about escalation, concerned it could draw NATO into direct conflict with nuclear-armed Russia.
The announcement coincides with a massive Russian strike described as the largest in months, targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. A nine-story building in Sumy was hit, killing eight people, including two children, and wounding dozens. Rescuers evacuated over 400 residents while searching for survivors. In Mykolaiv and Odesa, further attacks left four dead and disrupted power and water supplies. Ukrainian defences intercepted 144 of 210 air targets, but significant damage was inflicted on energy facilities.
North Korea’s involvement in the conflict has added a new dimension, with as many as 12,000 troops reportedly deployed to support Russian efforts in the Kursk region. Additionally, North Korea has supplied Russia with munitions to replenish its dwindling stockpiles. The move underscores growing international concerns about the deepening alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang.
Ukraine has welcomed the long-range missiles, though Zelenskyy remains measured in his response, stating, "The missiles will speak for themselves." This decision follows Biden’s meetings with South Korea, Japan, and China during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, where North Korea's role in the war was a central topic.
Meanwhile, fears are mounting that Russia seeks to devastate Ukraine's power infrastructure ahead of winter, with Ukrainian officials calling for stronger air defences and Western support. As explosions echoed across Kyiv, Odesa, and other regions, Poland mobilized allied aircraft to secure its border areas.
Biden’s decision also comes against the backdrop of Donald Trump’s presidential victory, raising uncertainty over continued US military aid to Ukraine. Trump has criticized the Biden administration’s extensive support for Kyiv and hinted at pushing Ukraine to cede territory to Russia as part of a peace settlement.
Despite delays, the US remains Ukraine’s most significant ally, having provided over $56.2 billion in military aid since the war began. However, the shifting geopolitical landscape and escalating attacks highlight the fragility of Ukraine’s position and the critical role of sustained international support.
**Headline**:
*Biden Approves Long-Range Missiles for Ukraine Amid Escalating Russian Strikes, North Korean Troop Deployment*
