Biden Hints at Easing Long-Range Weapons Restrictions for Ukraine Amid Rising Tensions
President Joe Biden has suggested that the United States might soon lift restrictions on the use of long-range missiles by Ukraine. This potential policy shift could fulfill Ukraine’s persistent requests to ease the limits on U.S.-supplied weaponry, which have been criticized for restricting their ability to combat Russia’s full-scale invasion effectively.
Biden’s comments come amid heightened scrutiny of Iran’s alleged role in supplying short-range ballistic missiles to Russia. During a press briefing, Biden indicated that his administration is “working that out now,” potentially signaling a forthcoming change in policy.
The U.S. has been cautious about allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles against targets deep within Russia due to concerns about escalating the conflict and drawing NATO countries into a broader war or even provoking a nuclear confrontation. However, the administration has gradually relaxed some restrictions, permitting Ukraine to target areas along the Russian border where troop activity has been reported.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been vocal about the need for more aggressive support, including the authorization to strike deep within Russia. The U.S. has so far resisted these calls, wary of the potential for significant escalation. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously warned that such actions could lead to “very serious problems,” raising fears of a wider conflict.
In addition to Biden’s remarks, the U.S., UK, France, and Germany have imposed new sanctions on Iran for its alleged supply of ballistic missiles to Russia. These sanctions include restrictions on Iran Air’s operations in the UK and Europe, as well as travel bans and asset freezes on several individuals linked to the missile supply chain.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is currently visiting London, stated that Russian forces trained by Iran could deploy the newly acquired missiles against Ukrainian targets within weeks. Iran has denied these allegations, describing them as false.
Blinken, alongside UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, will travel to Kyiv to meet with President Zelensky. Their visit aims to better understand Ukraine’s needs and discuss further support. The situation remains fluid as the international community navigates these complex geopolitical dynamics.