US President Joe Biden has reportedly given Ukraine the green light to use long-range US missiles to strike inside Russia, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hinted at the development, saying “the missiles will speak for themselves”.
Biden’s decision, although not formally announced, was conveyed to leaders at the G20 summit in Brazil, where he reaffirmed the US’s strong support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. However, Russia has condemned the move, with one official describing it as “throwing oil on fire”. Vladimir Putin has yet to comment on the matter.
The US decision is believed to be in response to the Kremlin’s decision to allow North Korean troops to fight in Ukraine, particularly in the Kursk region. Ukraine currently occupies a small chunk of Russian territory in Kursk, and the US missiles are expected to be used to hold onto this territory.
The conflict continues to take a devastating toll on civilians, with at least 10 people killed after a missile was shot down and fell on residential buildings in Odesa. This incident occurred following a weekend of widespread Russian attacks.
International Reactions:
- Russia’s Response: Moscow has warned of serious repercussions, with Leonid Slutsky, chair of a key foreign affairs committee in the State Duma, stating that strikes with US missiles deep into Russian regions will lead to escalation.
- Global Concerns: The decision has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation and the risks of drawing other countries into the conflict.
The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts underway to address the crisis. However, the latest developments suggest a heightened risk of escalation and potentially severe consequences for the region.
Add Comment