US Maintains Policy Against Extended Ukrainian Strikes Following Massive Russian Assault

The US is maintaining its stance against Ukraine conducting strikes further into Russian territory following the recent Russian deadly attack on July 8, according to National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby.

Kirby reiterated the existing policy, stating that US President Biden had previously authorized Ukraine to use US-supplied weapons to target locations just over the border. This directive remains unchanged despite recent Russian attacks.

“There’s been no change in our policy. You saw the president several weeks ago gave guidance to Ukraine that they can use US-supplied weapons to strike targets just over the border. That’s still the case,” Kirby told reporters on July 8.

The recent Russian military action targeted Ukraine’s largest children’s medical center, the Ohmatdyt hospital, using a Kh-101 cruise missile, resulting in casualties including fatalities and injuries, among them children, as reported by local authorities.

Kirby also commented on what he described as Russian self-proclaimed President Putin’s disregard for civilian infrastructure, noting attacks on hospitals and residential areas.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported over 170 injuries and at least 37 deaths across the country due to the July 8 Russian assault.

Kirby highlighted that as the NATO summit commences on July 9 in Washington, a clear and unified message will be conveyed to Putin: NATO and the United States are steadfast in their support of Ukraine, and Putin’s strategy of waiting out these alliances will not succeed.