Biden to allow Ukraine to use longer-range US missiles in Russia: Sources

President Joe Biden is reportedly set to authorize the transfer of longer-range U.S. missiles to Ukraine, a move that could escalate tensions with Russia and further support Ukraine’s efforts to defend itself against Russian aggression.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Biden is expected to approve the transfer of Javelin anti-tank missiles with a range of up to 4 kilometers to Ukraine. This decision comes as Ukraine continues to face ongoing conflict with Russian-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country, and as Russia continues to amass troops along the Ukrainian border.

The move to provide longer-range missiles to Ukraine is seen as a significant escalation in U.S. support for the country, which has been fighting against Russian aggression since 2014. The Javelin missiles are highly effective against armored vehicles and could give Ukrainian forces a significant advantage in the ongoing conflict.

However, the decision is likely to further strain relations between the United States and Russia, which have been at odds over a range of issues including Russia’s annexation of Crimea, its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine, and its interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

Despite the potential backlash from Russia, the Biden administration has made it clear that it stands with Ukraine in its efforts to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The decision to provide longer-range missiles to Ukraine is seen as a signal of the United States’ commitment to supporting its ally in the face of Russian aggression.

The move is also likely to be welcomed by Ukrainian officials, who have long called for increased military support from the United States and its Western allies. The longer-range missiles could help Ukrainian forces better defend themselves against Russian-backed separatists and deter further aggression from Moscow.

Overall, Biden’s decision to allow Ukraine to use longer-range U.S. missiles is a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. It demonstrates the United States’ commitment to supporting Ukraine in its efforts to defend itself against Russian aggression, and could help shift the balance of power in favor of Ukrainian forces on the battlefield. However, it also risks escalating tensions with Russia and further complicating an already volatile situation in Eastern Europe.