US authorizes Ukraine to use ATACMS missiles for strikes inside Russia

The Biden administration has authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles for attacks inside Russia, marking a significant policy change. These missiles can strike targets up to 190 miles away, potentially targeting Russian military positions in the Kursk region. Previously, the U.S. had withheld permission for Ukraine to use these missiles across the border, citing concerns over escalating tensions with Russia. Ukraine has long sought this capability to enhance its counteroffensive efforts against Russian forces. ATACMS, developed in the 1980s, are short-range ballistic missiles that can be launched from U.S.-provided HIMARS and older M270 systems. They are designed to hit high-value targets deep behind enemy lines.