In a dramatic policy shift announced on Thursday, May 30, President Joe Biden has quietly authorized Ukraine to use American-supplied weapons to conduct limited strikes inside Russia, marking a significant escalation in US involvement in the Ukraine conflict.
The decision, which is narrowly tailored to acts of self-defense, aims to enable Ukraine to protect Kharkiv, its second-largest city, from intensifying Russian attacks.
A New Chapter in the Ukraine Conflict
The move by President Biden to allow limited military responses on artillery, missile bases, and command centers inside Russia is unprecedented.
Politico first reported the decision.
It represents the first time an American president has permitted military actions within the borders of a nuclear-armed adversary using US-supplied weapons.
This major policy shift, pressed by Biden’s advisers and key allies, opens what could be a new chapter in the ongoing war.
Strategic Self-Defense
According to White House officials, the authorization extends solely to what they described as acts of self-defense so that Ukraine can protect its territories and populace.
“The president recently directed his team to ensure that Ukraine is able to use US-supplied weapons for counter-fire purposes in the Kharkiv region,” a US official stated under the condition of anonymity, adding that the policy of not allowing long-range strikes inside Russia “has not changed.”
This directive allows Ukraine to retaliate against Russian forces that are actively attacking or preparing to attack Ukrainian positions.
Restrictions and Limitations
Despite the broad implications of the decision, the White House was quick to clarify that the policy shift is indeed limited.
The use of long-range missiles, like the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), which can strike deep inside Russian territory, remains prohibited.
This calibrated approach seeks to balance the immediate tactical needs on the ground with the overarching strategic goal of preventing a wider escalation, especially one that might drag NATO into a direct conflict with Russia.
International Reactions and Implications
The policy change has not gone unnoticed on the global stage.
Allies such as Britain and France have voiced support for Ukraine’s right to defend itself, with Britain having previously allowed Ukraine to use its long-range missile systems for attacks anywhere in Russia.
However, countries like Germany have expressed caution, emphasizing the importance of acting within international law.
The decision also comes amid significant international engagements, with President Biden set to attend ceremonies in France and the G7 summit in Italy, where discussions are expected to focus heavily on the ongoing conflict and the global response.
Looking Ahead: A New Reality
As the decision takes effect, the world watches closely.
Russia has warned of unspecified responses should the US shift its policy, a threat underscored by recent military drills involving tactical nuclear weapons.
The situation remains fluid, with potential Russian countermeasures poised to define the next phase of this conflict.
“Russia has repeatedly played the nuclear card,” noted a senior US military official, referring to the heightened nuclear rhetoric in response to losses on the battlefield. “But now, we are entering a new reality, perhaps even a new era in the Ukraine conflict,” the official added, underscoring the precarious balance of power.
As Ukrainian forces prepare for what may be a series of counterstrikes, the international community remains on edge, pondering the broader implications of America’s revised stance.
How Russia responds in the coming days and weeks could well determine the future trajectory of the war in Ukraine.
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