How long-range missiles striking Russia could affect Ukraine war

In a pivotal decision, the United States has authorized Ukraine to utilize long-range ATACMS missiles, marking a historic shift in military support as Ukraine intensifies its operations against Russian forces. This decision enables Ukraine to strike designated targets within Russian borders for the first time.

As reported, the outgoing Biden administration has conveyed to Kyiv that it may deploy US-manufactured ATACMS for controlled strikes deep within Russia. This move comes despite previous hesitations from Washington, which feared that such actions could escalate the ongoing conflict.

Approaching the end of his term, President Biden’s decision to permit these strikes raises questions about future military aid under a potentially less supportive Trump administration.

Ukraine has effectively utilized the Army Tactical Missile System against Russian military targets in occupied territories for over a year, focusing on airbases and troop positions. However, Kyiv has long sought permission to extend these operations to Russian territory, arguing that restrictions on their military capabilities have hindered their defense efforts.

The ballistic missiles, capable of reaching up to 300 kilometers, represent a significant upgrade in Ukraine’s military arsenal. This policy shift is reportedly a response to increased Russian activity, particularly with the presence of North Korean troops near the Kursk border region.

Though Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not confirmed the decision publicly, he emphasized the importance of effective military action, stating, “Strikes are not made with words … The missiles will speak for themselves.”

With the authorization of ATACMS, Ukraine is now positioned to target strategic locations inside Russia, particularly in the Kursk region, where they maintain control over a substantial area. US officials assert that this allows Ukraine to counter expected offensives from combined Russian and North Korean forces.

While the addition of ATACMS may not entirely alter the course of the war—given the shifting locations of Russian military equipment—it’s expected to provide a much-needed boost to Ukrainian defense efforts amid escalating tensions.

Analysts suggest that this decision could elevate the conflict’s costs for Russia, posing new challenges as Ukraine aims to reclaim lost ground and improve troop morale.

Amid the ongoing war, the Biden administration has been cautious about escalating hostilities, acknowledging Kremlin warnings against the use of Western weapons to strike Russian territory. However, the decision to authorize ATACMS reflects a critical shift in how the US perceives Ukraine’s self-defense capabilities.

Experts argue this might provoke a response from Russia, potentially intensifying the conflict as new red lines are established. In the past, military support such as tanks or advanced weaponry did not elicit a direct confrontation, but the ramifications of this new authorization remain uncertain.

As Biden approaches the end of his presidency, the reaction of President-elect Trump remains a focal point. While the exact trajectory of Trump’s foreign policy regarding Ukraine is tentative, his allies have already voiced dissent concerning the missile authorization.

Concerns among Ukrainian officials underscore the potential for a reversal of military support under Trump, with hopes that recent progress will not be undone. In the wake of these developments, the international community watches closely as Ukraine prepares for the next phase of its defense against Russian aggression.