By DAYO ADESULU
Russia Accuses Biden Administration of Escalating Ukraine Conflict
The Kremlin has accused US President Joe Biden of fueling the 1,000-day conflict in Ukraine by approving the use of Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to strike targets inside Russia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov warned of a “palpable” response, describing the move as a direct provocation and a step toward increased tensions.
Biden, speaking at the G20 summit in Brazil, reaffirmed the United States’ support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The summit, attended by global leaders, concluded with a call for “comprehensive, just, and durable peace” in Ukraine.
Moscow Warns of NATO Involvement
Peskov reiterated that any attacks on Russian territory using long-range missiles would signify the United States and its allies’ direct involvement in the conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin previously stated that such actions would compel Moscow to take decisive measures, adding that it could escalate NATO’s role in the ongoing war.
The Russian Foreign Ministry also cautioned that Ukraine’s use of these missiles would provoke a robust response, emphasizing Moscow’s readiness to defend its interests against perceived Western aggression.
Ukraine Hails the Decision as a Game Changer
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga welcomed the US decision, describing it as a potential turning point in the conflict. Kyiv has long sought permission to use ATACMS, arguing that the ability to strike Russian military infrastructure deep within its territory could shorten the war and ease the burden on Ukrainian forces.
Sybiga highlighted the escalating pressures on Ukrainian troops, particularly in Donetsk, where Russian forces have made significant advances in recent weeks. He noted that the long-range missiles could have a transformative impact on the battlefield dynamics.
Missile Attacks Continue Amid G20 Summit
As the G20 summit progressed, Russia launched its second missile attack in two days on Odesa, a key Black Sea city. The strike killed ten people and injured 55, further highlighting the conflict’s devastating toll. Ukrainian engineers are racing to repair damaged energy infrastructure, with over 220,000 residents in Odesa and Dnipropetrovsk regions still without electricity.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, meanwhile, visited the frontline cities of Pokrovsk and Kupiansk to commend troops defending the Donetsk region. These areas have been under relentless attack as Russian forces push for control of key territories.
Chemical Weapons Violation Sparks Concern
The international chemical weapons watchdog has confirmed the presence of banned CS riot gas in samples from the conflict zone, violating global conventions. Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of deploying chemical agents, escalating concerns over the use of prohibited weapons in the war.
Growing International Involvement and Reactions
The US decision to supply ATACMS comes amid reports of North Korea deploying thousands of troops to assist Russia. Washington has labeled this development a concerning escalation.
Reactions from European allies have been mixed. French President Emmanuel Macron supported the US decision, calling it a positive step, while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer declined to comment. Ukrainian officials expressed frustration over delays, arguing that the approval should have come earlier to strengthen their defense.
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