On Sunday, the Biden administration lifted a ban that restricted Ukraine’s use of US-supplied weapons in its war with Russia, according to anonymous US officials that spoke to media. The change allows Ukraine to use US-made missiles for long-range strikes in Russian territory. The decision raises escalation concerns with claims that long range strikes could constitute direct NATO participation in the war.

Neither the White House nor the US State Department provided comments on the decision. While the Kremlin has yet to respond, Russian officials have previously issued warnings about potential escalations. The press secretary of the Russian president claims that Ukraine would be unable to conduct long range strikes without the use of NATO data and support equipment, which would amount to direct NATO participation.

This move marks a pivotal change in American policy regarding the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. The policy reversal is largely a response to Russia’s deployment of North Korean troops to bolster its military presence, a development that has raised concerns in Washington and Kyiv. A US official, along with a source knowledgeable about the decision, confirmed this reasoning.

Due to operational security, specific details remain confidential. This decision comes as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20, after months of advocacy from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy for enhanced military capabilities.

Andrei Klishas, a senior member of Russia’s Federation Council, commented on the seriousness of the decision, stating on the Telegram messaging app, “the West has decided on such a level of escalation that it could end with the Ukrainian statehood in complete ruins by morning.”

Donald Trump Jr. also took to X calling the Biden administration “imbeciles” saying, “The Military Industrial Complex seems to want to make sure they get World War 3 going before my father has a chance to create peace and save lives.”