Donald Trump could revoke Ukraine’s permission to use long-range missiles inside Russia when he succeeds Joe Biden as president, a member of his transition team has claimed.
The remarks were reported yesterday by Russian state news agency Tass following reports that Volodymyr Zelensky’s request for permission to begin using the MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) has been granted by Mr Biden.
Such a move would be a significant development although it has left many in Ukraine asking why the decision did not come sooner.
And according to Tass, the source said Mr Trump, victorious in November 5’s US Presidential election, was likely to take a different view to his predecessor.
They explained: “I suspect most everything will be under review.
“The United States has only one president at any given time.
“Until the afternoon of January 20, 2025, that president is Joe Biden.
“Authorising the use of those missiles was his decision, but not for much longer.”
MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) is a supersonic tactical ballistic missile designed and manufactured by US defence company Ling-Temco-Vought.
Mr Trump has pledged to end the Ukraine-Russia war “within 24 hours”, claiming his unique relationship with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin would allow him to broker a peace deal swiftly, bringing an end to the conflict.
Mr Trump has also criticised the Biden administration’s approach, arguing that prolonged US military aid risks escalating global tensions and could lead to unnecessary loss of life.
He has also suggested that his focus would be on diplomacy rather than further arms shipments.
The 78-year-old billionaire has not provided specific details on his proposed strategy but has hinted at leveraging economic and geopolitical pressures on both nations to bring them to the negotiating table.
His stance has raised concerns among Ukraine’s allies, as it could involve concessions to Russia that undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Critics worry his emphasis on reducing US involvement may embolden Moscow, particularly given his previous praise of Putin as a “savvy” leader
Nonetheless, Mr Trump has maintained that his approach would prioritise de-escalation and protect American interests.
Mr Zelensky offered a cautious reaction to the reports during his nightly video address yesterday, pointedly observing: “Strikes are not made with words.
“Such things are not announced.
“The missiles will speak for themselves.”
Posting on X, Ukrainian MP Inna Sovsun, a former deputy minister of education, said: “I am truly grateful to @POTUS for finally allowing Ukraine to strike into Russian territory with the IS-made missiles.
“But I can’t help but wonder what changed Biden’s mind right now—what’s different today compared to yesterday, a week ago, or a month ago?…”
