The Biden administration has lifted restrictions that prevented Ukraine from using American-provided weapons to target deep inside Russian territory, according to three informed sources. This marks a significant shift in U.S. policy regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Ukraine plans to launch its first long-range attacks in the coming days, though specific details are withheld for operational security reasons. The White House declined to comment on the matter. This decision comes after months of requests from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to allow the use of U.S. weapons to strike Russian military targets far from the border. The change follows Russia's deployment of North Korean ground troops to supplement its own forces, a development that has caused concern in Washington and Kyiv. The initial deep strikes are expected to be carried out using ATACMS rockets, which have a range of up to 190 miles.
The text suggests that providing more weapons to Ukraine could improve its negotiating position if ceasefire talks occur. However, it's unclear if the incoming president will reverse the current administration's decision. While some Republicans have urged easing restrictions on how Ukraine can use U.S. weapons, Russia has warned that this would be a significant escalation.