**Ukraine Allowed to Strike Inside Russia with US Missiles**
President Zelensky of Ukraine has been pushing for this moment for months. When it finally came, he was a little coy. In his nightly address, he said: “Strikes are not made with words, missiles speak for themselves”.
The US government has given permission to Ukraine to use long-range missiles supplied by Washington to strike deep inside Russia. The Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) will be used initially to defend Ukrainian troops holding on to a small chunk of Russian territory in the Kursk region.
A major Russian counter-offensive is expected there within days, assisted by as many as 10,000 troops from North Korea. The use of these missiles could complicate Russia’s efforts and enable Ukraine to hold onto this valuable bargaining chip ahead of any possible peace talks next year.
**Ukrainian Military Experts Welcome Decision**
Ukrainian military experts have welcomed the decision, saying it will not necessarily change the course of the war, but will restore a little balance. Russian forces are creeping forward all along the eastern front and Ukraine feels it has been on the back foot for several months.
“This is a very good news,” said Maj Volodymyr Havrylov. “It’s like getting a new card in our hand.”
**What We Do Not Know**
We do not know the specifics of Washington’s decision, how many systems Ukraine has, or what the Americans are saying in terms of what Ukraine can and cannot do with the missiles.
Another Ukrainian MP, Maria Ionova, stressed that missiles were “not the silver bullet”. She said the focus needed to be on a change in strategy. “Because our enemies are united – and we should stand together as well.”
Read More @ www.bbc.com