Biden Allows Ukraine to Use US Weapons for Strikes Inside Russia
By the staff at Ice Network.
President Joe Biden's administration has reportedly lifted restrictions that previously prevented Ukraine from using US-supplied weapons to conduct strikes deep into Russian territory, according to sources familiar with the decision. This marks a significant shift in US policy, potentially allowing Ukraine to target military assets farther from its borders, with potential implications for the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
In recent months, Biden authorized the use of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), which has a range of approximately 50 miles, to help Ukraine defend Kharkiv by allowing them to strike Russian forces directly across the border. However, restrictions remained in place on using longer-range weaponry such as the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), with a range of up to 190 miles, specifically in defense of Kharkiv. With the new policy change, Ukraine will now have access to ATACMS, enabling it to conduct longer-range strikes against strategic Russian targets deeper within Russian-controlled areas.
This shift in US policy responds to ongoing appeals from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has consistently requested greater military flexibility to counter Russia’s recent advancements. Ukraine has previously carried out smaller-scale incursions into Russian territory using drones and localized attacks, but Biden’s policy restricted such operations using US-supplied arms until now.
Sources indicate that Ukraine plans to execute its first long-range strikes using ATACMS in the coming days, targeting high-value Russian military installations and supply routes. This shift comes as Russia reinforces its military presence with North Korean ground troops, a development that has raised concerns in both Washington and Kyiv about the escalating scope of the conflict.
US officials remain divided on the potential impact of these expanded strike capabilities. Some argue that deeper attacks could disrupt Russian supply chains, increase pressure on Moscow, and potentially improve Ukraine’s negotiating position in future ceasefire talks. However, others remain cautious, questioning whether long-range strikes alone could alter the broader trajectory of the war.
Russia has responded strongly, with officials warning that this shift in US policy represents a serious escalation. While the Kremlin has not disclosed specific retaliatory plans, it emphasized that it views these long-range capabilities as a direct threat to Russian national security.
Biden’s decision also raises questions regarding President-elect Donald Trump’s potential approach to the conflict. Trump has promised to “end the war quickly,” though he has criticized the scope of US financial and military support for Ukraine without outlining specific plans. Several Republican members of Congress have pressed Biden to remove restrictions on Ukraine’s use of US-supplied weapons, arguing that greater flexibility is essential to counter Russia’s recent advancements.
As the situation develops, Biden’s policy change underscores a firm US commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense and military autonomy. This decision could significantly alter the dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the coming months, with increased pressure on Moscow and expanded options for Kyiv.
