President Joe Biden has given Ukraine the green light to strike the territory of aggressor country Russia with American long-range ATACMS missiles. This decision, reported by The New York Times on November 17th, comes as a significant show of support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.
According to the article, unnamed American officials have confirmed that Biden has authorized the use of ATACMS missiles, which have a range of up to 300 kilometers, to be used by Ukraine against Russian forces. This move marks a significant shift in US policy towards the conflict, as previous administrations have been hesitant to provide Ukraine with lethal weapons.
The decision to allow Ukraine to use ATACMS missiles is a clear message to Russia that the US stands firmly with Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity. It also serves as a warning to Russia that any further aggression towards Ukraine will not be tolerated.
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing since 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea and began supporting separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine. Despite numerous ceasefire agreements, the conflict has continued to escalate, with both sides accusing each other of violating the terms of the agreements.
In recent months, tensions between Ukraine and Russia have risen even further, with Russia amassing troops and military equipment along the border with Ukraine. This has raised concerns among the international community that Russia may be planning a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The decision to allow Ukraine to use ATACMS missiles is a significant step in the US’s efforts to support Ukraine and deter Russian aggression. The ATACMS missiles are highly accurate and can be used to target specific military installations, making them a valuable asset for Ukraine in its fight against Russian forces.
The move has been welcomed by Ukrainian officials, who have long called for the US to provide them with lethal weapons to defend themselves against Russian aggression. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude for the US’s support, stating that «Ukraine is not alone in this fight.»
The decision has also been met with praise from other countries, including NATO and the European Union, who have also been vocal in their support for Ukraine. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stated that the US’s decision «sends a clear message of support to Ukraine and its right to defend itself.»
The use of ATACMS missiles by Ukraine also serves as a strong deterrent to Russia, as it shows that Ukraine has the capability to strike back at Russian forces if necessary. This could potentially discourage Russia from further aggression and lead to a de-escalation of the conflict.
However, the use of ATACMS missiles also raises concerns about the potential for further escalation of the conflict. Some experts worry that this move could provoke Russia and lead to a more significant military response from them. The US has stated that it will closely monitor the situation and take necessary measures to prevent any further escalation.
In conclusion, President Joe Biden’s decision to allow Ukraine to use ATACMS missiles against Russian forces is a significant show of support for Ukraine and a strong message to Russia that the US stands firmly with its ally. It also serves as a deterrent to further Russian aggression and could potentially lead to a de-escalation of the conflict. However, the situation remains tense, and it is crucial for all parties involved to continue working towards a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
