US gives green light to Ukraine's missile strikes on Russian soil - what's next?
Biden allows Ukraine to use ATACM missiles against targets in Russiaʼs Kursk region where North Korean forces are present. This decision comes as Trumpʼs potential return to White House draws closer
The US-Ukraine military cooperation took an unexpected turn when Joe Biden approved the use of ATACM long-range missiles against targets in Russiaʼs Kursk region. This game-changing decision comes after months of discussions and appeals from Volodymyr Zelensky
Last fall Zelensky made his case at the YES conference and later during his Washington visit; however his requests didnt get immediate approval. The upcoming US presidential election (with Donald Trump leading in polls) seems to have pushed the current administration towards this step
North Koreaʼs involvement in the conflict adds another layer of complexity - about 10k NK soldiers are now stationed in Kursk Oblast: this move was seen as a response to Ukraineʼs access to western weapons. The ATACM deployment could help Ukraine target key military sites including Kursk Vostochny Airport (which houses MiG-29s and air-defense systems)
The strategic impact might be significant; here are potential outcomes:
- Deterrence against further NK troop deployment
- Extended strike capabilities near Kharkiv
- Improved targeting of Russian military objects
- Better coordination with existing HIMARS systems
Russia has already moved most of its aircraft beyond ATACM range - but 17 airbases and 250+ military facilities remain within reach. A recent Ukrainian drone strike on an Izhevsk factory (located deep in Russian territory) shows Ukraineʼs growing tech capabilities; this combined with ATACMs could reshape battlefield dynamics
