This post is also available in:
עברית (Hebrew)
In a significant shift in U.S. policy, President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to use long-range American missiles against military targets within Russia. This decision, confirmed by a U.S. official on Sunday, follows a series of devastating Russian missile attacks on Ukraine’s power grid, which killed at least 11 civilians and further crippled the country’s energy infrastructure.
The green light for Ukraine to deploy the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) comes after months of pressure from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has long sought the capability to strike deeper into Russian territory. The ATACMS, a supersonic missile capable of reaching up to 300 km, can be launched from systems like the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) or the M142 HIMARS, both of which have already been used by Ukraine in the conflict.
The decision is also tied to a broader escalation in the war. North Korea’s reported deployment of troops to support Russia’s military operations has raised concerns, prompting the U.S. to take stronger action. Poland, a vocal supporter of Ukraine, welcomed the move, with Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski stating that it was a response “in a language that Putin understands” after the deadly Russian missile barrage.
While the policy shift has been hailed by some, Ukrainian officials have remained measured in their response. President Zelensky addressed the media, acknowledging the new “long-range capability” but emphasizing that “missiles will speak for themselves” as Ukraine seeks to push back against Russian aggression.
The authorization for ATACMS use comes at a critical moment. Russia’s recent missile strikes, which have targeted civilian energy infrastructure, are part of an ongoing strategy to weaken Ukraine’s ability to defend itself. As the brutal war nears its 1,000th day, Ukrainian officials have warned that the upcoming winter could be the most challenging yet, with significant portions of the country’s energy capacity already destroyed.
