There has been a significant shift in U.S. policy regarding the arming of Ukraine. In a notable departure, the White House has now authorized the use of certain U.S. weapons for striking targets within Russia itself. This development comes as Nick Schifrin brings us the latest report.
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The United States has made a significant shift in its policy regarding the arming of Ukraine and the way in which the weapons provided by Washington are utilized. This development is of great importance and is a major story that we are closely monitoring.
The White House has made a significant decision by granting permission for the use of certain U.S. weapons to target locations within Russia. This marks the first time such action has been authorized.
Joining us now is our very own Nick Schifrin, who will provide further insights on this matter.
“Nick, could you please enlighten us on President Biden’s decision?”
For the past two years, President Biden has pursued two objectives in Ukraine that may not necessarily align. Firstly, he aims to prevent Russia from seizing control of Ukraine, which has led to the provision of American weapons and financial assistance to the country.
In order to prevent direct confrontation between the United States and Russia, the use of American weapons was limited to prevent Ukraine from firing them into Russia. However, in recent weeks, approximately 30,000 Russian troops have amassed on the border, launching attacks on Ukrainian towns in the Kharkiv district and seizing control of 12 villages within the buffer zone. Russia’s objective appears to be the establishment of a buffer zone.
According to a U.S. official, Ukraine was unable to utilize the weapons it had been provided with to defend itself. In light of this, the president has recently instructed his team to ensure that Ukraine is able to employ these U.S. supplied weapons for counter fire purposes in the Kharkiv region. This will enable Ukraine to effectively retaliate against its adversaries.
According to a U.S. official, the Kharkiv region is included in this statement. The official further stated that our policy remains the same in terms of prohibiting the use of long-range strikes within Russia.
Amna Nawaz: President Biden faced significant international pressure leading up to this. Can you tell us more about that?
The British government lifted its restrictions a month ago. Last week, French President Emmanuel Macron and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg both expressed support for Ukraine’s use of Western weapons to fire into Russia.
According to a U.S. official, President Biden made his initial decision on this matter two weeks ago, specifically on May 15th. It is evident that international pressure has intensified since then, but the United States had already made its decision prior to this development.
Amna Nawaz: Nick Schifrin’s reporting tonight provides valuable insight into this significant shift in U.S. policy. Thank you, Nick.
Nick Schifrin expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you.”
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