<
https://theconversation.com/why-did-the-us-change-its-mind-on-ukraine-firing-missiles-into-russia-and-will-it-impact-the-war-243920>
"The lifting of US restrictions on the use of ATACMS ballistic missiles by
Ukraine may help it repel Russian forces trying to retake Russian territory
seized by Ukraine earlier this year. It could also strengthen Ukraine’s hand
ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump’s arrival in the White House in
January.
It may, however, be another case of too little, too late in Western support for
Ukraine.
This week, the Biden Administration lifted restrictions on Ukraine’s use of
US-supplied missiles known as ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile Systems). ATACMS
have a range of around 300 kilometres. Previously, the US has told Ukraine only
to use them against Russian forces on Ukrainian territory.
This has been a source of huge frustration to Ukraine, particularly as it could
not use them against bases inside Russia that have launched ceaseless missile
and drone assaults on Ukrainian cities.
Russian attacks on Ukraine in October killed 183 civilians and wounded another
903, according to the UN.
Precise details of the change in US policy have not been announced publicly.
The
New York Times reports that permission to hit Russian territory will only
apply initially to attacking Russian forces massing in the Kursk region.
Russia wants to recapture more than 500 square kilometres of territory captured
by Ukraine in a bold thrust in August. Western agencies believe the 50,000
troops massing on the Russian side include several thousand North Korean
soldiers.
North Korea’s involvement may be the main reason prompting the removal of
limits on the ATACMS. Apart from strengthening Ukraine’s chances of keeping its
foothold inside Russian territory, the move may also discourage North Korea
from sending more troops.
The North Korean presence also provides some justification for the US decision,
allaying concerns it could be framed by Russia as an escalation."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
