Biden gives Ukraine permission to use US long-range weapons in Russia

CNN
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President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to use powerful US long-range weapons in Russia, according to a senior US official with knowledge of the decision, as North Korean troops deploy in support of Moscow’s efforts.

The decision comes as Russia has deployed nearly 50,000 troops in Kursk, the southern Russian region where Kiev launched its surprise counteroffensive this summer, to prepare to take back territory.

Thousands of North Korean troops have been sent to Kursk as part of the offensive. Biden and his advisers are concerned that the participation of North Korean troops in the conflict could lead to a dangerous new phase in the war.

The decision to allow the use of the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) had been under consideration for months. US officials were divided on the wisdom of allowing the new capability. Some expressed concern about the escalation of the war, while others worried about dwindling weapons supplies.

Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelensky had pressured Washington to allow the weapons to be used in Russia, arguing he needed the capability to gain momentum in his war effort.

This story is current and will be updated.