Biden Approves Ukraine's Use of U.S. Long-Range Missiles for Strikes Inside Russia
Putin warns escalation could lead to NATO’s direct involvement in the conflict.
In a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to utilize U.S.-provided long-range missiles to target locations within Russian territory, according to a New York Times report citing unnamed U.S. officials.
This decision comes in the wake of one of Russia's most aggressive missile and drone assaults in recent months, with over 200 strikes aimed at crippling Ukraine’s power and energy infrastructure. While the White House has not officially commented, this development signals a turning point in U.S. involvement in the war, prompting reactions from global stakeholders.
Putin's Warning on Escalation
Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly emphasized that allowing Ukraine access to advanced missile systems capable of striking Russian territory would equate to a declaration of war by the United States and NATO.
“Flight assignments for these missile systems can, in fact, only be entered by military personnel from NATO countries. Ukrainian servicemen cannot do this,” Putin stated in September. “This is not about Ukraine’s capacity; it’s about NATO and the U.S. directly participating in the conflict.”
Putin has yet to issue an official response to Biden's latest decision, but his earlier warnings underline the potential for heightened tensions that could draw NATO into direct confrontation.
Trump's Peace Proposal in Transition
Meanwhile, the incoming administration under President-elect Donald Trump is preparing to approach the conflict differently. Reports suggest Trump's team is exploring diplomatic options, including appointing a peace envoy to mediate between Ukraine and Russia.
Advisers within Trump's transition team are reportedly advocating for a proposal that would freeze the current frontlines, creating an 800-mile demilitarized zone and allowing Russia to retain control of territories it has occupied, roughly 20% of Ukraine. This plan may also include a 20-year moratorium on Ukraine’s pursuit of NATO membership.
Critics argue that such concessions would embolden Moscow and undermine Ukraine's sovereignty, but Trump's campaign rhetoric emphasized his ability to broker peace quickly.
What's Next?
The Biden administration’s decision to greenlight Ukraine’s use of U.S.-supplied missiles marks a pivotal moment in the conflict, intensifying global scrutiny. Whether this escalates tensions further or forces a resolution remains uncertain.