Washington, D.C. - May 30, 2024
In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, President Joe Biden has discreetly given Ukraine permission to carry out strikes inside Russian territory near Kharkiv using American-supplied weapons, Politico reported on Thursday. The decision, confirmed by a U.S. official and two other individuals familiar with the plan, marks a notable shift in U.S. policy regarding the use of its military aid to Ukraine.
"The president recently directed his team to ensure that Ukraine is able to use U.S. weapons for counter-fire purposes in Kharkiv so Ukraine can hit back at Russian forces hitting them or preparing to hit them," the U.S. official told Politico. Despite this, the official emphasized that the overall policy on allowing long-range strikes inside Russia has not changed.
Details on when President Biden granted this authorization remain unclear, and the White House has yet to comment publicly on the report.
This development comes amidst heightened tensions between Moscow and Kyiv, with Russian President Vladimir Putin issuing stern warnings about the potential for global conflict if Western allies enable Ukraine to use supplied weapons against targets within Russian borders. Ukraine has been pressing its Western partners for permission to extend the reach of its counterattacks, arguing that it is necessary to defend against Russian aggression effectively.
Historically, the United States has maintained a stance against the use of its weapons for direct strikes on Russian soil. However, Secretary of State Antony Blinken hinted at a possible policy shift during a recent press briefing. When questioned about the U.S. position on the matter, Blinken stated that Washington would "adjust and adapt" as the situation evolves.
The ramifications of this decision could be far-reaching, potentially escalating the conflict and drawing international scrutiny. The strategic city of Kharkiv, located near the Russian border, has been a focal point of intense fighting since the early days of the invasion, making it a critical area for Ukraine's defensive operations.
As the situation develops, global leaders and analysts will be closely watching the reactions from both Moscow and Kyiv, as well as the broader international community. The risk of further escalation underscores the delicate balance that the U.S. and its allies must navigate in supporting Ukraine's defense while managing the broader implications for regional and global stability.
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