President Joe Biden has hinted that the U.S. may soon lift its restrictions on Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles in its conflict with Russia. If this change takes place, it would mark a significant shift in U.S. policy, fulfilling Ukraine’s longstanding request to deploy American-supplied long-range weapons more freely against Russian targets.
For over a year, the U.S. has been cautious about supplying Ukraine with weapons capable of striking deep into Russian territory, fearing that such an escalation could provoke broader conflict or even lead to a nuclear response. However, President Biden confirmed on Tuesday that discussions were underway about revising those limitations. “We’re working that out now,” Biden told reporters when asked about the possibility of lifting the restrictions.
This move comes ahead of a high-level meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv. Blinken noted that the visit aimed to assess Ukraine’s military needs firsthand and determine how the U.S. and its allies could further support the country in its defense efforts.
The Biden administration’s willingness to reconsider these limits follows growing frustration from Kyiv over the pace of weapons deliveries. Ukrainian officials have argued that restrictions on long-range missile use have hindered their ability to repel Russian forces effectively. Meanwhile, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has issued warnings about the potential consequences of such a move, stating that it could lead to “very serious problems” and accusing the West of escalating the conflict.
The timing of Biden’s remarks also coincides with fresh sanctions by the U.S., UK, France, and Germany against Iran for allegedly supplying short-range ballistic missiles to Russia, which are reportedly being used in attacks against Ukrainian cities. Both Blinken and Lammy have condemned Iran’s involvement, calling it a “significant and dangerous escalation” in the ongoing war.
As the conflict continues, the potential easing of U.S. restrictions on long-range weapons could alter the dynamics on the battlefield, further complicating an already volatile situation. Both Ukraine and its allies are waiting for confirmation on whether the policy shift will come into effect, while Russia’s response remains to be seen.
