Biden authorizes Atacms use in Russia's Kursk

President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to use US-made Atacms long-range missiles against Russian and North Korean forces in Russia's Kursk region, marking a significant shift in US policy. The decision, which allows strikes up to 190 miles into Russian territory, comes in response to North Korea's deployment of an estimated 10,000 troops to support Russia's war effort.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indirectly confirmed the development, suggesting that evidence would emerge on the battlefield. The authorization is specifically limited to the Kursk region, where Ukraine conducted an incursion last summer, and could see implementation within days.

The policy change coincided with Russia's largest missile and drone assault on Ukraine since August, involving approximately 120 missiles and 90 drones. The attack prompted Ukraine to announce nationwide energy rationing and drew strong international condemnation. Poland's foreign minister welcomed Biden's decision, while Russian officials warned it could escalate toward "world war three."

Reports indicate North Korea might be willing to expand its military support to up to 100,000 troops, forming a joint force with Russia estimated at 50,000 soldiers. This marks the first deployment of North Korean ground forces since the 1953 Korean War armistice.

The decision does not affect UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles, which remain restricted from use in Russian territory. While Biden previously permitted the use of shorter-range Himars against Russian forces near Kharkiv, this represents the first authorization for long-range weapons inside Russia.

International leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, emphasized the need for continued support to Ukraine, with Starmer specifically highlighting the new security implications of North Korean involvement in the conflict.