President Joe Biden has approved a policy allowing Ukraine to use American-supplied weaponry to conduct defensive strikes inside Russia, specifically for protecting the Kharkiv region. This decision, confirmed by four U.S. officials, marks a significant shift in the U.S. stance on the use of its military aid, which previously restricted Ukraine from using long-range missiles and other munitions offensively within Russian territory.
The directive is intended to enable Ukraine to "hit back against Russian forces that are attacking them or preparing to attack them," as one official explained. This policy change was driven by increased calls from Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, arguing that the restrictions put Ukrainian forces at a disadvantage amid escalating Russian attacks near Kharkiv, a city close to the Russian border.
Internal discussions within the Biden administration, including key figures like Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, intensified following a notable uptick in Russian offensives. A critical meeting on May 13 with Ukrainian counterparts led to the recommendation to Biden to alter the policy. This recommendation, emphasizing the common-sense need for Ukraine to defend itself from cross-border attacks, was presented to Biden, who approved it after further consultations.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his recent visit to Kyiv, also endorsed the Ukrainian plea, sharing his support upon returning to Washington. Despite initial caution, Biden granted final approval after thorough deliberations, with the new guidance taking effect this past Thursday.
The decision comes amidst broader discussions among Western leaders about Ukraine’s right to defend itself comprehensively. French President Emmanuel Macron, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg, and other European officials have expressed support for Ukraine’s defensive actions, even if they extend into Russian territory. They argue that effective self-defense against Russia’s aggression must include the ability to strike legitimate military targets outside Ukraine.
This policy shift underscores the Biden administration's evolving strategy in response to changing battlefield conditions and ongoing Russian escalation, ensuring Ukraine has the necessary capabilities to defend itself effectively.
