Biden allows Ukraine to strike Russia with American long-range missiles
Nov 17, 2024
auto_awesome
The U.S. has given Ukraine the go-ahead to use long-range missiles against Russia, marking a significant shift in military strategy. Analysts explore what this move means for the ongoing conflict and its timing amidst recent global tensions. As North Korea flexes its military muscle and Russia increases its strikes, the geopolitical implications are profound. However, experts caution that while this authorization is crucial, it may not dramatically change the war's trajectory, especially with well-protected Russian strongholds remaining.
The recent approval for Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied long-range missiles signifies a pivotal change in its military approach against Russian forces.
President Biden's decision reflects both a strategic military response to escalating threats and an urgent political context as his term nears its end.
Deep dives
Impact of Long-Range Missiles on Ukraine's Strategy
Ukraine's recent acquisition of U.S.-supplied long-range ATAKAMS missiles, with a range of 300 kilometers, marks a significant shift in the country's military strategy against Russia. President Zelensky has long advocated for the use of such capabilities to target military infrastructure and missile-launching facilities within Russian territory. The ability to strike deep into enemy lines aims to enhance Ukraine's tactical advantages, particularly in countering continuous missile attacks from Russia. This shift in policy is particularly timely given the recent deployment of North Korean troops in the Kursk region, as well as an increasing urgency to respond to escalating Russian attacks on Ukraine.
Political and Military Considerations Behind the Decision
The decision to allow Ukraine to use long-range missiles is seen as a strategic response to both military escalations and political timelines surrounding President Biden's administration. With only two months remaining in office, the urgency to act is heightened, especially in light of Russia's aggression and the potential threat posed by foreign deployments, such as North Korea's. Observers note that while these missiles could alter some dynamics on the battlefield, they are not expected to significantly change the overall balance of power in a protracted conflict. Experts like Sehei Kuzan emphasize that while the deployment of these missiles is crucial for parity, it is not a game-changer, and Ukraine will still require more advanced systems to truly shift the war's momentum.
US President Joe Biden has given the green light for Ukraine to use long-range missiles supplied by US to strike Russia.
But what could the deployment of these missiles mean for Ukraine? And why has President Biden done this now?
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producer was Ben Carter. The technical producer was Stephen Bailey. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sara Wadeson.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode