The decision to strike in the Kursk region escalates tensions, with Russia warning of potential acts of war

President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine’s military to deploy U.S.-supplied long-range missiles against targets inside Russian territory, a move likely to escalate the ongoing conflict between the two nations. The decision, which was confirmed by senior U.S. officials, focuses on the Kursk region of western Russia. The U.S. provided missiles, intended to counter the growing military threat from Russia, including its recent collaboration with North Korea.

This shift in policy came after Russia’s decision to involve 10,000 North Korean soldiers in the fighting in the Kursk area. The strategic use of long-range missiles is seen as a direct response to this development, with Ukrainian forces potentially targeting Russian military infrastructure and other key sites.

While the missiles will primarily be used in Kursk, it remains unclear whether the Biden administration will extend authorization to other regions of Russia. The announcement was made amid escalating military operations, as Russia launched one of its largest missile and drone attacks against Ukraine’s power and energy infrastructure, marking a significant increase in violence.

The decision to provide Ukraine with advanced missile systems is expected to intensify the already volatile situation. Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously warned that allowing Ukraine to use U.S. long-range missiles against Russian targets would amount to NATO’s direct involvement in the war. Putin has framed such actions as a breach of international norms, calling it an act of war.

“The flight assignments for these missile systems can, in fact, only be entered by military personnel from NATO countries,” Putin stated in September. “It is not a question of allowing the Ukrainian regime to strike Russia with these weapons or not. It is a question of making a decision whether NATO countries directly participate in the military conflict or not.”

Despite Putin’s harsh rhetoric, the Biden administration has signalled its continued support for Ukraine, aligning with its allies, including the UK and France, who have similarly authorized Ukraine to launch SCALP/Storm Shadow missile strikes.

This move reflects a significant escalation of Western involvement in the conflict, increasing tensions between NATO and Russia. It also raises the stakes for Biden’s administration, which is already navigating complex diplomatic and military challenges in the region.

As the war in Ukraine continues to evolve, the ramifications of this new approval could have significant implications for international relations, military strategy, and the future course of the conflict.