President-elect Donald Trump has criticized outgoing President Joe Biden for authorizing Ukraine’s use of American-provided ATACMS missiles to strike targets deep within Russia. Calling the decision “very stupid,” Trump expressed concerns about the potential escalation of the conflict and indicated he may rescind the authorization after taking office next month.
Last month, Biden granted Ukraine permission to deploy ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) missiles, which are capable of striking targets up to 300 kilometers (186 miles) away. These weapons have since been used by Ukrainian forces to hit strategic locations within internationally recognized Russian territory. Notably, an attack on a military airfield near Taganrog in southern Russia last week involved six missiles, two of which were intercepted by Russian air defenses, while the remaining missiles were diverted using electronic warfare, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.
Trump has sharply criticized Biden’s timing, suggesting that such a significant decision should not have been made mere weeks before a new administration takes office. During a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate on Dec 16, Trump stated, “I don’t think they should have allowed missiles to be shot 200 miles into Russia. Not when there’s a possibility… and certainly not just weeks before I take over. Why would they do that without asking me what I thought?”
Trump characterized the decision as a “major escalation” and hinted at reversing the authorization once he assumes office. “I thought it was a very stupid thing to do,” he said. “I might rescind it.”
The use of long-range missiles by Ukraine has heightened tensions in an already volatile conflict. The strikes have drawn condemnation from........