**US Approves Use of Long-Range Missiles by Ukraine, Prompting Strong Reaction from Russia**

In a significant policy shift, President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to use US-supplied long-range missiles in its ongoing conflict with Russia, a decision likely to provoke a considerable response from Moscow. The Russian Foreign Ministry sternly warned that such an act would lead to "an appropriate and tangible" reaction, interpreting this move as direct US involvement in hostilities against Russia.

The authorization, allowing Ukraine to target Russian territories, diverges from previous restrictions set by Western allies. Ukraine's arsenal, now including the US Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) with a range of 300 kilometers, had thus far been limited to strikes within Ukrainian borders. This change comes as the war marks its 1,000th day, amid a perceived stalemate and increasing Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.

The announcement coincides with heightened tensions as more than 10,000 North Korean troops arrived in Russia's Kursk region to support President Vladimir Putin's forces. Unconfirmed sources suggest North Korea might dispatch up to 100,000 soldiers along with artillery and other military equipment to aid its ally.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has hinted that there may not be a formal declaration regarding the US missile approval, suggesting the actions of the missiles will speak for themselves. Some reports indicate that the US might have limited Ukraine's use of these missiles in Kursk as a potential signal to North Korea to cease its military aid to Russia.

The US move is perceived in the West as a strong message to Russia, indicating that a military victory in Ukraine is unlikely for President Putin. Though Putin has yet to comment on the latest development, his spokesperson criticized the US for "adding oil to the fire."

The situation remains highly volatile, with the recent Russian escalations including severe attacks on Ukraine’s power grid resulting in extensive blackouts and casualties. Over the weekend, Russian strikes killed several people, and a Monday attack on Odesa left 10 dead and nearly 50 injured.

President-elect Donald Trump, set to assume office on January 20 after his victory on November 5, has yet to publicly respond to Biden’s decision. Trump has vowed to end US involvement in international conflicts and intends to prioritize domestic investments. He has also claimed he could end the Ukraine war within 24 hours, though details on his plan remain unspecified. Ukraine's Zelensky anticipates that Trump will exert pressure for a peace agreement within the next year.