Ukraine is Allowed to Fire US-made Missiles into Russia
Nov 18, 2024
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A significant policy shift allows Ukraine to fire U.S.-made long-range missiles into Russian territory. Correspondents dive into the implications of this decision on the battlefield and discuss the Kremlin's stern reaction. Tensions rise as Russia warns of escalating military actions and possible shifts in nuclear doctrine. The podcast also explores the geopolitical ramifications of U.S. military actions in Eastern Europe amid the changing political landscape as the Biden administration prepares for an incoming Trump administration.
The Biden administration's approval for Ukraine to use U.S.-made missiles targets Russian military assets amid North Korean troop involvement.
Russia perceives this policy shift as a significant escalation, potentially altering the conflict dynamics and complicating future peace negotiations.
Deep dives
U.S. Policy Shift on Long-Range Missiles
The Biden administration has granted Ukraine permission to fire U.S.-made long-range missiles into Russian territory, a decision influenced by the deployment of North Korean troops to support Russia. This change signifies a strategic shift aimed at counteracting the North Korean presence, particularly in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces have engaged with Russian troops. While this advancement fulfills Ukraine's longstanding request for such capabilities, the overall impact may be limited due to the small number of long-range missiles available to Ukraine, which necessitates careful target selection. Potential targets include critical military infrastructure like oil depots and missile launchers that threaten Ukrainian cities.
Escalating Tensions and Future Negotiations
In response to the U.S. policy change, Russian officials have warned of a significant escalation in tensions, interpreting this move as a direct confrontation with the West. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated that any offensive actions taken by Ukraine with these missiles could alter the nature of the conflict, suggesting a potential shift toward a more aggressive military posture by Russia. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the implications for future negotiations, especially as former President Trump prepares to re-enter the political scene, aiming to negotiate peace. The current environment suggests that negotiations will be complicated, as both sides may leverage recent military developments for bargaining power.
Ukraine is granted permission from the Biden administration to fire U.S.-made long range missiles into Russian territory. We hear from two NPR correspondents about this major policy shift by the White House. Our Pentagon correspondent tells us the goals around the move and what it might mean on the battlefield. And our correspondent in Moscow gives us the Russian Government's reaction to the move.