In a significant policy shift, President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to utilize the U.S.-supplied weapons for defensive operations, including counter-fire actions within its borders. This decision, aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities, comes amid increasing pressure from both domestic and international stakeholders to support Ukraine’s efforts against Russian aggression.
A senior administration official stated,
The president recently directed his team to ensure that Ukraine can use U.S.-supplied weapons for counter-fire purposes in the Kharkiv region so Ukraine can hit back against Russian forces that are attacking them or preparing to attack them.
This move is seen as a direct response to the escalating conflict in Eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Kharkiv region, where Russian forces have intensified their offensive operations.
Despite this authorization, the official reiterated that the U.S. policy prohibiting long-range strikes inside Russia remains firmly in place. “Our policy concerning prohibiting the use of ATACMS or long-range strikes inside of Russia has not changed,” the official emphasized, clarifying that the new directive does not allow Ukraine to conduct offensive operations within Russian territory.
This nuanced stance reflects the Biden administration’s attempt to balance support for Ukraine while avoiding actions that could potentially escalate the conflict into a broader war involving NATO. The decision has been met with mixed reactions from U.S. lawmakers and international allies. Some argue that it is necessary to empower Ukraine in its self-defense, while others caution that it could provoke further aggression from Russia.
The Kremlin has condemned the U.S. decision, labeling it as a “provocative escalation.” Russian officials warned that any attacks on their territory would be met with a “proportionate response.” This statement underscores the fragile nature of the situation and the potential risks involved in this policy shift.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has welcomed the support, expressing gratitude for the continued military assistance from the U.S. and its allies. “This support is crucial for our defense and will help us to protect our people and our sovereignty,” Zelensky said in a statement.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to unfold, the international community remains watchful of the implications of this new U.S. policy. The situation highlights the complexities of providing military aid in a highly volatile and politically sensitive environment.
Source: The New York Times May 31, 2024
