(Rightallegiance.com) – President Joe Biden has given Ukraine the green light to use American-supplied weapons to target Russian forces near the Kharkiv region, according to US officials. This decision allows Ukraine to use US weapons for “counter-fire purposes,” specifically to retaliate against Russian forces attacking or preparing to attack Ukrainian positions.
Despite this new directive, the United States maintains its policy of prohibiting long-range strikes inside Russia. However, Moscow is likely to view this move as an escalation of the conflict.
In recent weeks, Russian forces have made significant gains in the Kharkiv region following a surprise offensive near the Russian border. A US official confirmed to BBC News that the policy regarding the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) and other long-range strikes inside Russia remains unchanged. When questioned by CBS, the BBC’s US partner, about the potential for attacking Russian aircraft, an official stated that Ukraine has never been restricted from shooting down Russian planes attacking them, even over Russian soil.
The White House and State Department have not yet commented on this development. Meanwhile, the UK has indicated a willingness to ease restrictions on how Ukraine can use Western-supplied weapons. This stance is shared by several European leaders, despite concerns that it could further escalate the conflict.
Previously, the US had been hesitant to relax these restrictions due to fears of provoking a wider war. However, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken suggested a shift in this policy during a visit to Moldova. “At every step along the way, we’ve adapted and adjusted as necessary,” Blinken said. “And so that’s exactly what we’ll do going forward.”
The recent advance by Russian forces in Kharkiv coincided with a delay in the arrival of additional Western weapons for Ukraine. Last week, at least 12 people were killed and dozens injured when Russian forces targeted a supermarket in Kharkiv with two glide bombs, underscoring the ongoing violence and urgency for defensive measures.