Ukraine is defending against a Russian offensive in the northeastern Kharkiv region, constrained by U.S. rules limiting the use of its provided weapons to within Ukrainian borders. This policy aims to prevent escalation but is under pressure for change.
Ukrainian politicians have traveled to Washington to urge a policy shift. The U.S. Helsinki Commission supports allowing Ukraine to use these weapons across the Russian border. However, analysts doubt Washington will permit this, citing escalation risks and NATO's commitment to defend its members while keeping out of Russia.
"The constraints were established from the start," said Janice Stein, a foreign policy expert at the University of Toronto, and they remain respected. These conditions leave Ukraine to defend itself without crossing red lines.
"This conflict has been managed by U.S. policy to help Ukraine defend without provoking a confrontation with Russia," said retired U.S. General Wesley Clark. As a result, Ukraine faces significant challenges and casualties.
Kyiv has reinforced Kharkiv amid intense Russian attacks, leading to mass civilian evacuations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported many soldiers wounded and killed. Despite stopping Russian advances, Ukraine faces continued threats as Russian President Vladimir Putin claims his forces aim to create a buffer zone against Ukrainian attacks, not to capture Kharkiv.
Janice Stein noted Ukraine's dwindling air-defense supplies and ammunition, which Western allies are working to replenish. She predicts a challenging summer for Ukraine as Russia maintains pressure.
Ukraine also struggles with troop recruitment, having lowered the draft age. Training new soldiers closer to the front lines raises further escalation concerns, with NATO considering sending trainers into Ukraine.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's recent Kyiv visit highlighted the policy debate. Although he reiterated U.S. restrictions on weapon use, he suggested Ukraine must decide its conduct in the war. Despite this, the U.S. policy remains unchanged, with officials reaffirming the stance against using U.S.-supplied weapons inside Russia.
Former Ukrainian economy minister Tymofiy Mylovanov believes Blinken's comments show Washington is considering a policy shift due to growing pressure. A change would allow Ukraine to target Russian forces and supplies before they cross the border, which Mylovanov argues is necessary for a more effective defense.
George Barros of the Institute for the Study of War also supports a policy change, emphasizing that Putin has already escalated the conflict extensively. He hopes the U.S. will adapt its policy soon to better support Ukraine.
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