The conflict in Ukraine’s north-eastern region of Kharkiv is escalating as Russian forces continue their offensive, prompting pressure on US President Joe Biden to allow Ukraine to use West-supplied weapons to strike Russian territory. This move has sparked warnings from Russian President Vladimir Putin of “serious consequences” for European countries.
US allies have signaled their openness to the possibility of Ukraine using Western weapons against Russian military sites, with France’s President Emmanuel Macron advocating for such action. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has also hinted at the idea of defensive action extending beyond Ukraine’s borders.
Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg has voiced support for Ukraine’s right to defend itself by striking targets in Russia, while UK Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron and Polish officials have indicated their willingness to allow Ukrainians to use their weapons as needed.
Despite Russia’s strong opposition to the prospect of Western weapons being used against its territory, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticized the limits imposed by Western countries on the use of their weapons. Some Nato countries, like Italy, remain cautious about the idea of hitting Russian military bases and instead advocate for supplying more air defenses to Ukraine.
It is believed that Ukraine has already used some Western-supplied weapons for attacks on Russian territory, albeit discreetly. While some countries have provided weapons to Ukraine without conditions, others have explicitly given permission for their weapons to be used inside Russia.
The US has been a key supplier of defensive weapons to Ukraine, including tanks and air defense systems. The recent delivery of ATACMS missiles with a range of 190 miles highlights the ongoing support for Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. The situation remains tense as Western leaders navigate the complex dynamics of the conflict in Ukraine.
