U.S. Greenlights Long-Range Missiles to Ukraine: What’s Behind the Move?

USA and Russia flags with missiles and lightning.

The U.S. decision to authorize long-range missiles for Ukraine has heightened tensions amidst a complex geopolitical backdrop involving Russia and North Korea.

At a Glance

NATO and Ukraine to hold emergency talks after a missile strike by Russia.
The conflict reaches a “decisive phase” with escalated tensions.
Russia claims missile attack as retaliation for Western military support to Ukraine.
Criticism arises as Biden allows Ukraine to strike inside Russia.

Long-Range Missile Authorization

President Biden’s authorization for Ukraine to use long-range missiles has sparked intense reactions globally. Russia perceives this as a direct threat from NATO forces, given their prior warnings against enabling Ukraine to attack deep within Russian territory. The authorization came amidst ongoing hostilities and as U.S. leadership transitions from President Biden to President-elect Trump, who holds different views on military aid to Ukraine.

The U.S. move follows a severe missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, which led NATO and Ukraine to schedule emergency talks. Russia’s recent use of a new hypersonic ballistic missile has compounded the need for strategic discussions and adjustments in defensive capabilities.

Escalation of Conflict

Russia’s missile strike, purportedly as retaliation against U.S. and British military support, has been labeled as an escalation by several international leaders. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský condemned the attack and called for enhanced air defense capabilities for Ukraine to counter further aggression. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Western defense systems are ineffective against their new missiles, a claim stirring anxious debates on defense strategies.

“These are rockets that are fired and then guided to a target via an electronic system, which requires the world’s most advanced technology and satellite communications capability,” said Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán on state radio. “There is a strong assumption … that these missiles cannot be guided without the assistance of American personnel.”

Western leaders argue that Russia heightens tensions by deploying North Korean troops and perpetuating attacks. Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán cautioned against underestimating Russia’s potential nuclear countermeasures, echoing the severe implications of the geopolitical discord.

The United States will stand with the people of Ukraine until they prevail.

“Russia will never succeed in Ukraine, and the spirit of the Ukrainian people will never be broken," – @POTUS

Together with our Allies, we have provided Ukraine with the equipment for five additional… pic.twitter.com/Df00gizaqF

— U.S. Mission to NATO (@USNATO) September 3, 2024

Implications for NATO and Ukraine

NATO faces challenges in balancing resources and alliances as tensions mount. With Russia’s newspaper Rossiyskaya Gazeta’s critique labeling Biden’s decision as highly provocative, NATO allies must grapple with the possible consequences of greater direct involvement in the conflict. The political landscape is further complicated by shifts in U.S. leadership, which could influence NATO’s strategy and support for Ukraine.

Ukraine’s struggle is intensified by domestic fatigue over the ongoing war, with calls for negotiations growing more vocal. As Ukraine navigates these turbulent waters, the necessity for diplomatic and strategic calibration becomes crucial to ease the prolonged conflict.