Biden allows Ukraine to launch limited strikes on Russia with US weapons

“The president recently directed that Ukraine be able to use US-supplied weapons to counterattack in Kharkiv, helping Ukraine fight back against Russian forces that are attacking them or preparing to attack them,” a US official said on May 30, stressing that the attack would be limited to the area around Kharkiv.

Ukraine has asked the US to change its support policy in recent weeks as Russian forces have made significant advances, the official said, adding that Russian forces, ammunition depots and logistics centers could now be targeted by US-supplied artillery and missiles from Kharkiv.

US President Joe Biden. Photo: Reuters

Previously, Ukraine was allowed to use US anti-aircraft weapons to attack Russian aircraft in Ukrainian airspace. However, the restrictions prevented Ukraine from targeting Russian aircraft operating over Russian territory.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken stressed that the US could “adapt and adjust” its stance on those restrictions, and publicly expressed a willingness to change the US administration’s tactics.

Earlier, key European leaders also signaled a change of heart. Speaking at a press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on May 28, French President Emmanuel Macron made it clear that French weapons sent to Ukraine, including long-range missiles, were allowed to target bases on Russian territory.

According to Mr. Macron, Ukraine is being attacked from bases on Russian soil, so Ukraine is allowed to use French weapons to attack the point where the missiles were fired to protect the towns as well as around Kharkiv.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz echoed Mr Macron, saying Ukraine was allowed to defend itself as long as it respected the conditions of its arms suppliers and international law.

Concerns about the escalation of the conflict initially set limits on Ukraine firing at Russian territory with US weapons. While concerns persisted, the US changed its stance after the Ukrainian government made clear the need to defend Kharkiv, European allies began to change tactics and NATO leaders quietly urged the US to authorize such strikes.

“Refusing to let Ukraine use these weapons against military targets on Russian territory makes it very difficult for them to defend themselves,” NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said last week.

Earlier this month, Mr. Blinken visited Ukraine and heard firsthand Ukraine’s request to strike targets inside Russian territory. During that trip, Mr. Blinken reiterated that the United States would ensure Ukraine was “in a position to deter and defend against future attacks.”

Ngoc Anh (according to CNN)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/tong-thong-biden-cho-phep-ukraine-tan-cong-han-che-vao-nga-bang-vu-khi-my-post297574.html