President Biden’s decision to allow Ukraine to use US-supplied long-range missiles against Russia has sparked fierce criticism from Trump allies, who warn of potential escalation to World War III.
At a Glance
- Biden authorized Ukraine to use US-provided long-range missiles inside Russia
- Trump allies warn of escalating conflict and risk of World War III
- Decision allows Ukraine to target Russian positions in Kursk region
- Critics claim the move is politically motivated during Biden’s final months in office
- Russia warns of “appropriate” response if missiles are used against them
Biden’s Controversial Decision
President Joe Biden has made a significant policy shift by authorizing Ukraine to employ US-supplied long-range missiles for strikes inside Russian territory. This decision, coming in the final months of Biden’s presidency, has ignited a firestorm of criticism from allies of former President Donald Trump. The move allows Ukraine to target Russian positions in the Kursk region, where an estimated 50,000 troops, including 10,000 North Koreans, are reportedly stationed.
The authorization follows a major Russian missile and drone attack on Ukraine’s infrastructure, underscoring the ongoing tensions in the region. Deputy national security adviser Jon Finer cited the presence of North Korean forces as a factor influencing the decision to authorize the missiles.
President Joe Biden has for the first time authorized the use of U.S.-supplied long-range missiles by Ukraine to strike inside Russia, according to one U.S. official and three people familiar with the matter.
Donald Trump Jr. claims Biden’s administration is trying to start… pic.twitter.com/DtcBi1YlzF
— The National Desk (@TND) November 18, 2024
Warnings from Trump Allies
Trump allies, including Rep. Michael Waltz and former acting Director of National Intelligence Richard Grenell, have voiced strong opposition to Biden’s decision. They argue that this move could potentially escalate the conflict into a global war and suggest it may be politically motivated.
“No one anticipated that Joe Biden would ESCALATE the war in Ukraine during the transition period. This is as if he is launching a whole new war.” – Rep. Michael Waltz, Richard Grenell
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene also criticized Biden’s actions, claiming they could lead to World War III and asserting that the American public rejected such decisions in recent elections. Donald Trump Jr. echoed these sentiments, accusing the military-industrial complex of pushing for conflict before his father has a chance to pursue peace.
Russian Response and International Implications
Russian officials have reacted strongly to Biden’s decision, warning of potential escalation to a third world war. President Vladimir Putin had previously cautioned that such actions would mean direct US involvement in the conflict. The Kremlin has warned of an “appropriate” response if the missiles are used against Russian territory.
“Russian officials have reacted furiously to President Biden’s decision to allow Ukraine to fire U.S.-made missiles deeper into Russian territory, warning that it could lead to a third world war.” – Russian officials
The decision has also raised concerns about the potential impact on future peace negotiations. Trump’s supporters argue that this move could complicate efforts to resolve the conflict diplomatically, particularly if Trump returns to the presidency. They emphasize Trump’s commitment to ending US involvement in foreign wars and his promise to swiftly resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Domestic Political Implications
The controversy surrounding Biden’s decision highlights the growing divide in US politics regarding support for Ukraine. Recent polls indicate that a significant portion of Republicans oppose US involvement, with 62% stating that the US has no responsibility to support Ukraine against Russia. This shift in public opinion could have significant implications for future US foreign policy, especially if there is a change in administration.
“The American people gave a mandate on Nov 5th against these exact America last decisions and do NOT want to fund or fight foreign wars. We want to fix our own problems.” – Marjorie Taylor Greene
As the debate over US involvement in Ukraine continues, the authorization of long-range missiles has become a flashpoint in the ongoing political discourse. With Trump allies warning of escalation and Biden’s administration defending the decision as necessary support for Ukraine, the issue is likely to remain at the forefront of foreign policy discussions in the coming months.
Sources
1. Biden’s move on missiles for Ukraine angers Trump allies
2. Trump allies warn Biden risking ‘World War III’ by authorizing long-range missiles for Ukraine
