Ukraine uses US weapons to strike inside Russia, a Western official tells AP

SUMMARY

Ukraine has used U.S. weapons to strike targets inside Russia recently, according to a Western official. This action follows President Joe Biden's guidance allowing American arms to be used defensively within Russia to protect Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city. This directive permits strikes on Russian forces attacking or preparing to attack, but does not alter the U.S. policy that restricts Ukraine from using long-range American munitions offensively within Russia. Kharkiv, located near the Russian border, has faced increased attacks. Ukrainian officials had urged the U.S. to permit defensive actions against such assaults.