By Smartencyclopedia SNBNewsdesk with Agencies
Washington, D.C. (Nov. 16, 2024)
President Joe Biden’s authorization of Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile Systems) for strikes deep into Russian territory has sparked strong reactions from allies of President-elect Donald Trump. The move, reported by Reuters and other outlets, marks a significant policy shift, intensifying an already volatile conflict.
The Decision
The ATACMS, with a range of up to 190 miles, could enable Ukraine to target key military infrastructure deep within Russia. The Biden administration reportedly made the decision following Russia’s deployment of thousands of North Korean troops to bolster its forces in Ukraine, escalating the war.
While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his government have long urged the U.S. to approve the use of such long-range weapons, the Biden administration previously hesitated due to fears of escalation. President Vladimir Putin has warned that such actions would signify NATO’s direct involvement in the conflict, altering “the very nature of the war.”
Trump Allies React
Supporters of Donald Trump swiftly criticized Biden’s move, accusing him of recklessness in his final months in office.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) took to X, formerly Twitter, writing, “On his way out of office, Joe Biden is dangerously trying to start WWIII by authorizing Ukraine to use U.S. long-range missiles into Russia. The American people gave a mandate on Nov 5th against these exact America-last decisions.”
Billionaire Elon Musk echoed criticism of Biden’s decision, retweeting Senator Mike Lee’s (R-UT) post that read, “Libs love war,” with a succinct “True.”
Donald Trump Jr. accused the administration of bowing to the military-industrial complex, claiming Biden’s actions were a deliberate attempt to escalate the conflict before his father could negotiate peace. “The Military Industrial Complex seems to want to make sure they get World War 3 going before my father has a chance to create peace and save lives,” he wrote.
Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk argued against using U.S. weaponry for strikes inside Russia, comparing the situation to a hypothetical scenario of foreign nations arming American enemies.
The Larger Context
The decision to allow deep strikes comes as Trump prepares to take office following his 2024 electoral victory. Trump has vowed to end the Russia-Ukraine war within “24 hours” by mediating directly with Putin and Zelenskyy. Critics, however, warn that Trump’s approach could lead to a settlement favorable to Russia, potentially cementing territorial gains from its invasion.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken defended the administration’s continued support for Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of bolstering Kyiv’s defenses as Russia ramps up attacks. “We will continue to shore up everything we’re doing for Ukraine to ensure it can effectively defend itself,” Blinken said during a NATO meeting in Brussels.
The Road Ahead
As Biden’s term nears its end, the debate over U.S. involvement in Ukraine intensifies. The administration’s decision reflects a belief that Ukraine must maintain momentum on the battlefield, particularly in light of Russia’s new alliances with North Korea. However, Trump’s supporters see the decision as a provocative gamble, setting the stage for a complex and high-stakes transition in U.S. foreign policy come January.
The first strikes using U.S.-supplied ATACMS are expected in the coming days, underscoring the urgency and unpredictability of the conflict’s next phase.