Biden's pivotal weapons approval boosts Ukraine's defense strategy
The administration of President Joe Biden has permitted Ukraine to use American weapons to target locations on Russian territory. Dr. Jamie Shea, a former senior NATO official, sees this decision as crucial, especially since it might become impossible to make if Donald Trump returns to office.
19 November 2024 06:59
On Sunday, Reuters, citing sources within the Washington administration, reported the US's authorization for Ukraine to use American missiles for strikes in Russia. The AP and AFP agencies and the "New York Times" also confirmed this information, citing American officials. However, the US State Department has not formally confirmed any changes in the policy regarding the use of American weapons against targets in Russia.
Dr. Jamie Shea, former NATO spokesperson and deputy secretary-general for new security challenges, highlights the importance of this decision. In his view, allowing attacks using ATACMS missiles is one of the few actions the US administration could quickly undertake to aid Ukraine in defending the areas occupied in the Kursk region from Russian and North Korean forces and in halting the offensive on Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region.
Shea points out that other forms of support, such as training, vehicle supplies, or ammunition, are being implemented too slowly to significantly impact the situation. "ATACMS can dismantle Russian supply lines, logistics hubs, and concentrations of Russian troops, as well as uplift Ukrainian morale during a challenging time," Shea noted.
Key decisions for Ukraine's position in negotiations
The expert highlights that the effectiveness of these systems depends on the number of missiles available to Ukraine and any restrictions imposed by President Biden, such as restricting the use of weapons to defend areas in the Kursk region. "Meanwhile, ATACMS can hit targets in Russia only 300 kilometres from the Ukrainian border. That's a substantial range, but many airbases and facilities producing drones and missiles are located further within the country," Shea emphasized.
Dr. Shea also underscores the importance of Ukraine having approval to use British Storm Shadow cruise missiles and French SCALP in sufficient quantities to target sites in Russia. According to him, these missiles might warn North Korea to withdraw its support for Moscow, considering the potential losses.
The expert believes the US decision could help Ukraine prevent further territorial loss before the winter pause in fighting. Maintaining control over areas in the Kursk region would enhance Kyiv's position before potential negotiations with Moscow.
But ATACMS do not solve any of the fundamental issues. What are the strategic goals of the US and the West in Ukraine? How to support Ukraine in the long term and gain a real advantage over Putin to the point where he makes concessions and agrees to a true peace? – Shea ponders.
