Biden approves new missile use policy: Can Ukraine stop Russia?
The administration of President Joe Biden has allowed Ukraine to use American weapons to strike targets on Russian territory. Dr. Jamie Shea, a former high-ranking NATO official, views this decision as crucial, especially since it may not be feasible if Donald Trump returns to power.
On Sunday, Reuters, citing sources in the Washington administration, reported on the US approval for Ukraine to use American missiles in attacks on Russia. These reports were also confirmed by AP and AFP agencies as well as the "New York Times," quoting American officials. Nevertheless, the US Department of State has not officially confirmed 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, emphasizes the significance of this decision. In his opinion, allowing attacks with ATACMS missiles is one of the few things the US administration could quickly do to help Ukraine defend the occupied area in the Kursk region from Russian and North Korean forces and to stop the offensive on Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region.
Shea notes that other forms of support, such as training, vehicle deliveries, or ammunition, are implemented too slowly to significantly impact the situation. "ATACMS can destroy Russian supply lines and logistic hubs as well as concentrations of Russian troops and also boost Ukrainian morale during difficult times," Shea assessed.
Decisions crucial for Ukraine's position in negotiations
The expert points out that the effectiveness of these systems depends on the number of missiles available to Ukraine and any restrictions imposed by President Biden, such as using the weapons solely to defend areas in the Kursk region. "At the same time, ATACMS can reach targets in Russia at a distance of only 186 miles from the border with Ukraine. This is a significant range, but many air bases and facilities producing drones and missiles are located further inside the country," Shea emphasized.
Dr. Shea also highlights the importance of Ukraine having permission to use British Storm Shadow cruise missiles and French SCALP in sufficient quantities to attack objects in Russia. In his view, these missiles could warn North Korea to withdraw its support for Moscow in the face of potential losses.
According to the expert, the US decision may help Ukraine prevent the loss of more territories before the winter break in fighting. Maintaining control over areas in the Kursk region would strengthen Kyiv's position in potential negotiations with Moscow.
But ATACMS solves none 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 how to gain a real advantage over Putin to make him concede and agree to genuine peace? – Shea wonders.
