In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, tensions have escalated with the recent decision by the United States to allow Ukraine to use long-range American missiles against targets in Russia. This move, authorized by U.S. President Joe Biden, marks a significant shift in U.S. policy after previously refusing Ukraine's request for authorization to use these missiles.
The Kremlin has responded to this development, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating that it signifies a "new round of tension" and a "qualitatively new situation" in the conflict. Russia has been using foreign-made weapons, such as Iranian killer drones and North Korean missiles, in its ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Despite Biden's approval of strikes into Russia, a high-level French military official believes that it will not change the balance of power on the battlefield. The official noted that the Ukraine war is also an "industrial war," where the production of weapons plays a crucial role in determining the outcome.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded to the missile reports, emphasizing that actions speak louder than words and that "missiles will speak for themselves." Meanwhile, Russian officials, such as Vladimir Dzhabarov, have warned that this decision could lead to the beginning of a third world war.
It is important to note that earlier in September, Russian President Vladimir Putin had cautioned Western countries against allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles, stating that it would amount to NATO's direct involvement in the conflict. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in military actions.