Well, here we are—after two plus years of hemming and hawing, President Biden has finally given Ukraine the green light to use long-range missiles, targeting Russian forces in the Kursk region and even hitting North Korean allies. It’s a significant step, but let’s be honest—it’s one that should have happened a long time ago. While I’m glad to see action being taken, the delays have cost Ukraine dearly.

The Case for Standing with Ukraine

First things first, let’s be clear: Vladimir Putin’s Russia is not the friend of freedom. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is unjust, aggressive, and, frankly, unprovoked. Ukraine, for all its faults, is fighting for its sovereignty—something we as Americans should instinctively respect.

When it comes to Biden’s decision to arm Ukraine with long-range missiles, there’s a Biblical principle that comes to mind: “Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy” (Psalm 82:3). Ukraine, in this analogy, is the afflicted. They didn’t start this war; they’ve been trying to protect their people from a brutal invasion. They’ve been fighting for its survival since February 2022, and yet, for over two years, the Biden administration dragged its feet. They sent aid, sure, but they held back on the kind of decisive action that could have turned the tide of the war.

Russia has shown itself to be an imperialist bully, eager to crush a neighboring nation’s independence. On top of that, Russia has enlisted the help of North Korea—a regime known for its brutal persecution of Christians and unyielding hostility toward the Gospel. Ukraine resisting this alliance of evil seems pretty justified from where I’m sitting.

The Pros of Biden’s (Finally) Bold Decision

1. Leveling the Playing Field
   Allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles finally gives them a chance to hit Russia where it hurts. These weapons aren’t just tools—they’re lifelines for a nation fighting against overwhelming odds.
2. A Stronger Stand Against Tyranny
   By approving this action, the U.S. sends a message to Vladimir Putin and his North Korean cronies: aggression and imperialism will not go unchallenged. It’s a firm response that should’ve been made months—or even a year—ago.
3. Moral Leadership
   Supporting Ukraine in this way demonstrates that America still stands for justice and freedom. If we can’t back a smaller nation fighting for its very existence, what do we even stand for anymore?

The Costs of Delay

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: why did this take so long? Every day we delayed, Ukraine paid the price in blood and destruction. The Kursk strikes could’ve disrupted Russian supply lines months ago. Instead, we watched as Ukraine struggled against a relentless foe, waiting for Washington to make up its mind.

And the delay hasn’t just cost Ukraine—it’s cost us. The longer this war drags on, the more it destabilizes the world. Energy prices have soared, global supply chains are disrupted, and our own military resources have been stretched thin because of piecemeal aid instead of decisive action.

The Cons of Biden’s Timing

1. Risk of Escalation Still Looms
   The delay hasn’t eliminated the risks of escalation; it’s just prolonged them. By taking so long to act, we’ve given Putin time to dig in and fortify his positions.
2. Missed Opportunities for Peace
   Earlier support might have forced Russia to the negotiating table two years ago. Instead, we’ve been stuck in a cycle of half-measures and endless conflict.
3. Cost to U.S. Credibility
   Let’s face it—Biden’s hesitancy has made America look weak. When it takes this long to make the right call, our allies wonder if they can count on us, and our enemies grow bolder.

Final Analysis

Biden’s decision is the right one—but it’s far too late. Supporting Ukraine against Russia’s aggression is just, but the delay is a missed opportunity. The lesson here is simple: when we see evil, we must act decisively. Ukraine didn’t need long-range missiles now; they needed them two years ago, before their cities were turned to rubble and their people displaced. While it’s better late than never, this hesitation has cost lives, resources, and perhaps even opportunities for peace.

Going forward, let’s pray for wisdom for our leaders and boldness to act when it’s needed—not months after the fact. Let’s continue to stand with Ukraine and work toward a world where tyranny has no safe haven.