Biden Authorizes Ukraine to Strike Inside Russia with ATACMS Missiles
Major policy reversal allows long-range strikes on Russian territory as North Korean troops join combat operations
Historic Policy Shift Enables Deep Strike Capability
President Biden authorized Ukraine to use US-supplied ATACMS missiles against targets inside Russia on November 17, 2024, reversing long-standing restrictions as North Korean forces engaged in combat operations in Kursk Oblast.
Key Facts
- Policy change: ATACMS use inside Russia approved
- Range: Up to 300km strike capability
- Catalyst: North Korean troop presence
- Initial area: Kursk Oblast operations
Restriction Reversal
The decision overturned:
- Previous geographic limitations
- Escalation management policy
- Self-imposed restraints
- Long-held red lines
North Korean Factor
Authorization linked to:
- 10,000+ DPRK troops in Kursk
- International escalation response
- Deterrent messaging need
- Coalition warfare concerns
Strategic Implications
The change enabled:
- Russian logistics targeting
- Airfield strike capabilities
- Command center attacks
- Ammunition depot destruction
Initial Limitations
Restrictions maintained:
- Kursk Oblast initial focus
- Gradual expansion possible
- Nuclear facility exclusions
- Civilian infrastructure limits
Russian Response
Moscow warned of:
- “Appropriate responses”
- NATO direct involvement claims
- Escalation threats
- Red line crossing rhetoric
Allied Reactions
European responses varied:
- UK Storm Shadow consideration
- French SCALP discussions
- German Taurus debates renewed
- General support expressions
Military Impact
New capabilities included:
- Deep rear area strikes
- Operational disruption potential
- Logistics vulnerability creation
- Air defense challenges
Escalation Concerns
Critics worried about:
- Nuclear threshold risks
- Conflict expansion potential
- Russian retaliation options
- Diplomatic solution impacts
Ukrainian Planning
Kyiv immediately began:
- Target list preparation
- Intelligence gathering increase
- Strike coordination planning
- Maximum impact strategies
Transition Timing
Decision factors included:
- Presidential transition approaching
- North Korean deployment response
- Battlefield situation evolution
- Alliance pressure accumulation
Implementation Speed
First strikes expected:
- Within days of authorization
- High-value target focus
- Demonstration effect sought
- Strategic messaging priority
Biden’s ATACMS authorization represented a fundamental shift in US policy, providing Ukraine with deep strike capabilities while raising questions about escalation management and future conflict trajectories.