Biden Administration to Allow Ukraine to Strike Inside Russia with U.S.-Made Weapons

Following Russia's major assault on the second-largest city in Ukraine, Kharkiv, the Biden administration has granted Ukraine permission to strike inside Russia using U.S.-made weapons. This decision aims to counter Russia's attacks in the Kharkiv area, according to senior American officials on Thursday.

Background Discussions and Request for Assistance

After weeks of discussions with the Ukrainians, the decision to allow strikes inside Russia was made in response to Russia's artillery and missile attacks on the Kharkiv area from within Russian territory. Kharkiv's proximity to Russia in the northeast of Ukraine has made it a target for Russian military operations. Ukrainian officials requested greater leeway in defending Kharkiv, leading to the decision to grant permission for strikes inside Russia, as confirmed by an American official.

Intended Scope of the Permission

The permission granted by President Biden is solely intended for Ukraine to target military sites in Russia that are being used to launch attacks on the Kharkiv area, as stated by U.S. officials.