Joe Biden's authorization of missile strikes on Russian territory using ATACMS serves multiple objectives. These missiles, capable of hitting targets at a range of 300 kilometers, put approximately 20 strategic facilities, including airfields, oil refineries, and other targets in Russia's Bryansk, Kursk, Lipetsk, Voronezh, Rostov-on-Don, and Anapa regions, at risk. Additionally, strikes are planned against armed forces brought from North Korea stationed in Kursk, aiming to change the course of the war.

Axar.az reports that military expert Elkhan Shikhaliev shared these remarks while commenting on the potential impact of the U.S. administration's authorization of missile strikes deep into Russian territory on the course of the war.

According to the expert, the use of long-range missiles increases the likelihood of a prolonged war:

“This decision aligns with Ukraine’s interests and is one of the measures taken to prevent an unfavorable outcome for Ukraine. Such a step can strengthen Ukraine's military positions. It should be noted that detecting and intercepting ATACMS missiles in time is not easy for Russia.”

The expert also highlighted the risks associated with this move by the U.S.:

“Russia has previously stated that if it detects any NATO-manufactured tactical ballistic missiles on its territory, it will consider it equivalent to a direct declaration of war against NATO and will take appropriate action. This increases the likelihood of expanding the war zone, as Russia might strike NATO member states, including the Baltic nations, Poland, or U.S. airbases in these countries. While this step by the U.S. aims to weaken Russia at the negotiation table, it also heightens the risk of escalation in the war.”