May 31, 2024
2 mins read

Biden allows use of US weapons for limited Ukrainian strikes

Under the new directive, Ukraine is permitted to retaliate against Russian forces or targets located near Kharkiv using weaponry supplied by the United States….reports Asian Lite News

In a significant shift from longstanding policy, President Joe Biden has authorised Ukraine to conduct targeted strikes within Russian territory using American munitions.

This decision comes amidst escalating tensions as Russian forces make significant advances near Kharkiv, a city in northeastern Ukraine close to the Russian border, according to two US officials briefed on the matter.

Under the new directive, Ukraine is permitted to retaliate against Russian forces or targets located near Kharkiv using weaponry supplied by the United States.

“The president recently directed his team to ensure that Ukraine is able to use US-supplied weapons for counterfire purposes in Kharkiv so Ukraine can hit back at Russian forces hitting them or preparing to hit them,” one official said.

This policy adjustment, however, is strictly confined to the vicinity of Kharkiv, with no plans to expand the permitted area, the official added. Ukrainian authorities have not sought permission for strikes beyond this region.

The request for this policy change was made by Kyiv in response to the advancing Russian forces in recent weeks, the official confirmed. Ukrainian forces are now empowered to target Russian military installations, ammunition depots, and logistical hubs across the border from Kharkiv in western Russia.

Nevertheless, the Biden administration has maintained its stance against allowing Ukraine to utilize its most formidable munitions, including the long-range ATACMS missiles, which have a range of up to 200 miles (300 kilometers).

Secretary of State Antony Blinken hinted at the possibility of adjusting the administration’s approach earlier this week. “Another hallmark of our support for Ukraine over the last two years has been to adapt as the conditions have changed,” Blinken remarked during a visit to Moldova. “I am confident we will continue to do that.”

The shift in policy aligns with recent statements from European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Macron emphasised the need for Ukraine to neutralise military sites within Russia that pose a threat to Ukrainian territory. “Ukrainian soil is being attacked from bases in Russia,” Macron stated.

“We think that we should allow them to neutralise the military sites from which the missiles are fired and, basically, the military sites from which Ukraine is attacked.”

Scholz echoed Macron’s sentiments, affirming that Ukraine has the right to defend itself within the parameters set by the countries supplying the weapons and international law. (ANI)

ALSO READ: Zelensky Appeals to Biden and Xi for Peace Summit Participation

Previous Story

Houthi leader says 129 ships attacked during Red Sea campaign

Next Story

UN experts seek sanctions, arms embargo against Israel

Latest from -Top News

Child Marriage Still Plagues Bangladesh

The UNICEF report highlights that Bangladesh has the highest rate of child marriage in Asia, with over 50 per cent of girls being married off before the age of 18 A recent

UK appoints special envoy for women 

The UK government’s Plan for Change, which forms the foundation of this initiative, is designed to foster a strong economy by creating opportunities for working women   In a landmark move aimed

Protests Sweep Pakistan Over Sindh’s Rights

Latest attacks came hours after Donald Trump said Vladimir Putin was ‘doing what anybody would do’  Russia launched a devastating attack on Ukraine on Saturday, killing at least 14 people and injuring

Zelensky Rallies Allies for War-Ending Deal

This will be the first high-level gathering of US and Ukrainian officials since the February 28 meeting between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has shared details of

BAPS Temple Vandalised in California

The ‘anti-Hindu’ messages included phrases such as ‘Hindus go back,’ alarming the local Hindu community A BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, one of the largest Hindu temples, located in Chino Hills, California, was
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Wang Yi Calls for Comprehensive Dialogue with the US

Blinken also expressed his condolences on the passing of former

US Court rejects Trump claim of immunity from prosecution

The ruling is a major blow to Trump’s key defence