The United States has expanded its agreement with Ukraine to allow strikes over the border inside Russian territory wherever Russian forces are engaging in cross-border attacks into Ukraine. This agreement is not limited to the Kharkiv region as previously determined. National Security Adviser confirmed that the agreement extends to anywhere Russian forces are attempting to invade Ukrainian territory from the Russian side.
The Pentagon spokesperson stated that the US has agreed to permit Ukraine to fire US-provided weapons into Russia across the border where Russian forces are attempting to take Ukrainian territory. This marks a significant shift from the previous limited nature of the agreement, which only allowed limited strikes inside Russia primarily in the Kharkiv region.
A senior US Defense Department official hinted at a potential change in policy, indicating a willingness to reassess previous restrictions. NATO Secretary General also advocated for Ukraine to have more flexibility in firing into Russia, emphasizing Ukraine's right to strike military targets on Russian territory for self-defense.
The US has clarified that Ukraine can use US-provided air defense systems to shoot down Russian planes if they pose a threat, even if they are not in Ukrainian airspace. This development underscores the evolving dynamics of the conflict and the increasing support for Ukraine's defensive capabilities.