The Biden administration has made a big change in its policy by allowing Ukraine to use American weapons to attack locations far inside Russia. According to U.S. officials, this represents a major change in the way the country is addressing the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Ukraine prepares for long-range strikes

Ukraine is getting ready to launch its first long-distance attacks using ATACS rockets, which can hit targets up to 190 miles away. This decision follows months of requests from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who had been asking for permission to carry out such strikes. In his nightly speech, Zelenskiy hinted at this new step, suggesting that preparations are underway.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy addressed media reports about Ukraine receiving permission for certain actions. He said, "Today, many in the media are saying that we have received permission to take appropriate actions. But strikes are not made with words. Such things are not announced."

Response to North Korean involvement

The United States changed its policy mainly because Russia is using North Korean soldiers to strengthen its army in eastern Russia. A U.S. official said that over 10,000 North Korean troops have likely been sent, with many fighting in the Kursk region. Ukrainian forces have faced these soldiers in battles as Russia’s advances have sped up.

Biden allows Ukraine to use US arms to strike inside Russia | Ariana News[Source- Rappler]

Poland’s foreign minister, Radoslaw Sikorski, pointed out the involvement of North Korean troops as a key factor. He said, “President Biden responded to the entry of North Korean troops into the war and the massive Russian missile strike in a language that V. Putin understands—by removing restrictions on Ukraine’s use of Western missiles.”

The Kremlin has not commented yet, but Russian officials have issued strong warnings. Vladimir Dzhabarov, a senior Russian lawmaker, said, “Washington’s decision to let Kyiv strike deep into Russia could lead to ‘World War Three.’”

Andrei Klishas, another Russian official, expressed similar concerns, stating, “The West has decided on such a level of escalation that it could end with the Ukrainian statehood in complete ruins by morning.”

The decision has caused discussions in the United States. Some officials think that allowing Ukraine to carry out long-range strikes may not drastically change the war but could help Ukraine during future peace talks. Republican Representative Mike Turner supported the decision but said it should have been made earlier.

“This first step will put pressure on Vladimir Putin as President-elect Trump returns to the White House and works to end this war,” Turner said.

Zelenskiy calls for action

President Zelenskiy has often requested more advanced weapons to fight against Russia’s increasing power. His appeals have become more urgent as Ukraine faces challenges in holding onto their progress due to a lack of soldiers.

Alex Plitsas, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, criticised the timing of the decision. “Removing targeting restrictions will allow the Ukrainians to stop fighting with one hand tied behind their back. However, like everything else, I believe history will say the decision came way too late. Just like the ATACMS, HIMARS, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, Abrams tanks, and F-16. They were all needed much sooner.”

Political implications of the policy shift

The decision to allow Ukraine to use U.S. weapons comes just two months before Donald Trump is set to take office on January 20. Trump has often criticised the amount of U.S. aid to Ukraine and promised to end the war quickly, although he hasn't explained how he plans to do that. A spokesperson for Trump didn't comment on the decision, but one of his foreign policy advisers, Richard Grenell, criticised Biden's move, saying, “Escalating the wars before he leaves office.”

However, the Biden administration defended its decision, saying it was part of their plan to help Ukraine be stronger before Trump’s administration begins. A U.S. official explained, “Senior Biden administration officials have repeatedly said they would use the remaining time to ensure Ukraine can fight effectively next year or negotiate peace with Russia from a ‘position of strength.”

Ukraine’s future actions

Although Biden's decision lifts important restrictions, other countries supporting Ukraine, like NATO members, still have rules about how their weapons can be used. These rules are in place to stop Ukraine from doing things that could cause retaliation against NATO countries or lead to a bigger conflict, including the risk of nuclear war.

Zelenskiy is determined to take advantage of this chance to stop Russia's progress. A Ukrainian official said, "Lifting these restrictions is not only about military success. It's also about giving our people hope for a better future."