President Joe Biden has authorised Ukraine to deploy American-supplied long-range missiles for strikes within Russian territory, according to senior US officials.

The decision marks a significant escalation in the States’ support for Kyiv, allowing to use Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) with a range of nearly 190 miles. It is understood the weapons will be used to target Russian and North Korean forces in western ’s Kursk region.

Biden’s authorisation comes just two months before , who has vowed to curtail US support for , is set to return to the White House. The president’s decision to allow the use of these advanced missiles follows a Russian escalation.

Moscow recently enlisted Kim Jong Un’s troops to support its offensive. American officials indicate one objective of their missile deployment is to deter further North Korean involvement by highlighting the weakness of their forces in Russian territory.

Earlier this year, Biden eased restrictions on America-made weapons in response to ’s cross-border assault near the northern city of Kharkiv. At that time, the US leader allowed Ukrainian forces to use the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System with a range of 50 miles to strike Russian positions near the border but stopped short of permitting the use of ATACMS.

However, following continued aggression and the arrival of North Korean troops, Biden last night (Sun) lifted the restrictions. While US officials believe that Ukraine’s use of ATACMS will reinforce its defence, some believe they may not alter the overall war.

According to one insider, several military advisors remain unconvinced, fearing that Ukrainian strikes within Russian borders could provoke Putin into a more direct retaliation against America and its allies.

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