In a significant turn of events, Ukraine has conducted strikes on Russian soil using American-supplied missiles for the first time, targeting the city of Belgorod, located 32 kilometers from the border. This action follows the US administration’s recent policy shift, which lifted the ban on the use of American weapons against Russian targets, allowing Ukraine to counter Russian aggression in the Kharkiv region. The move represents a stark change in the dynamics of the conflict, as Ukraine seeks to bolster its defensive capabilities against what President Volodymyr Zelensky describes as ‘Russian terrorism’ . The US National Security Council, through spokesperson John Kirby, has indicated that further expansion of Ukraine’s permission to strike Russian targets with American weapons could be considered, contingent upon developments on the battlefield . This potential escalation is balanced by the understanding that Ukraine has of the limitations on the use of such weaponry . Amidst the backdrop of these developments, Italy has committed to supplying Ukraine with a second SAMP/T air defense system, capable of intercepting ballistic missiles . Additionally, the Netherlands has joined the ranks of NATO countries allowing Ukraine to use their F-16 fighter jets to attack Russian military targets . These contributions underscore the growing support from Western allies as Ukraine continues to face intense military pressure from Russia . As Ukraine navigates these new military capabilities and strategic partnerships, the conflict’s trajectory remains uncertain, with both sides sustaining significant losses and continuing to adapt their tactics in the face of an evolving battlefield.
Key points
- Ukraine has used American-supplied missiles to strike targets within Russia for the first time, specifically in the Belgorod region.
- The US has hinted at potentially expanding Ukraine’s permission to strike deeper into Russian territory with American weapons.
- Italy and the Netherlands have pledged additional military support to Ukraine, with Italy providing a second SAMP/T air defense system and the Netherlands approving the use of F-16 fighter jets.
