Ukrainian forces have reported a successful strike on a Russian missile system within Russian territory using Western-supplied weapons. This strike occurred shortly after President Biden granted Ukraine permission to conduct limited strikes with U.S. weapons in Russian territory near Kharkiv. The Ukrainian military sees this policy change as significant, as it allows them to target Russian forces amassing near the border, particularly in the northeastern region of Kharkiv.
The strike targeted a Russian S-300 surface-to-air missile system, repurposed by Russia for ground attacks. Ukrainian officials claim that this successful strike demonstrates the effectiveness of using Western weapons in Russian territory. The S-300 system, with a range of up to 100 miles, posed a threat to Ukrainian civilians when used for ground attacks.
While the Pentagon has not issued a statement regarding the strike, Ukrainian President Zelensky, currently in Singapore for the Shangri-La Dialogue, expressed gratitude to President Biden for the policy change. Zelensky emphasized the need for longer-range strikes, which are currently restricted by the U.S.
Russia has condemned the U.S. decision, warning of an asymmetric response that could involve cyberattacks. The Russian government accused the U.S. of escalating tensions and reiterated its intent to retaliate in response to the policy change.
