Biden privately assured Ukraine they could use US weapons to defend against Russia

In a bold move that could escalate the conflict in Ukraine, US President Joe Biden has reportedly given Ukraine permission to strike inside Russia’s borders using American weapons. This decision comes as Russia continues its offensive on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city near the northeastern border with Russia.

According to reports, Biden directed his team to allow Ukraine to use US weapons for counter-fire purposes specifically in Kharkiv, enabling them to hit back at Russian forces targeting them or preparing to attack. However, the policy does not permit Ukraine to strike civilian infrastructure or launch long-range missiles deep inside Russia.

The decision marks a significant shift in US policy, as the administration had previously expressed concerns that such actions could further involve the US in the conflict. Nevertheless, the dire situation on the battlefield prompted Biden to reconsider, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken suggesting that US policy could evolve as needed.

The move has garnered support from US allies like the UK and France, as well as bipartisan backing from Democrats and Republicans. Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelensky, have long advocated for the ability to strike Russian troop positions just over the border to defend their country effectively.

As the situation continues to unfold, the world watches closely to see how this development will impact the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the broader implications for US involvement in the region. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.