World War III? Biden-Harris administration allows Ukraine to plan attacks inside Russia; Putin warns of direct conflict with US and NATO

The White House is finalising plans to potentially ease restrictions on how Ukraine can use U.S.-donated weapons, including expanding the areas inside Russia that Ukraine is permitted to target. This move comes as Ukraine seeks to enhance its defensive and offensive capabilities amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

Discussions among U.S., British, and Ukrainian officials are focusing on several key changes:

1. Expansion of Target Areas: Officials are considering allowing Ukraine to use U.S. and British-made weapons to strike deeper into Russian territory. This could involve using U.K. long-range missiles that incorporate American components.
2. Enhanced Protection Against Russian Missiles: There are also plans to improve Ukraine’s defences against Russian missile attacks.

These discussions represent a shift from earlier restrictions imposed on the use of donated weapons. Historically, the U.S. has been cautious about allowing Ukraine to conduct strikes deep inside Russia to avoid escalating the conflict.

Current Restrictions and Policy Shift

Previously, the Biden administration permitted limited use of U.S. weapons within specific regions, such as around Kharkiv, to avoid direct attacks on Russian soil. However, with growing pressure and recent developments, including the confirmation of Iranian ballistic missile shipments to Russia, there is increasing momentum to reassess these restrictions.

National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan hinted at a potential policy shift in June, emphasising that if Russia is attacking Ukraine from its territory, it would be logical for Ukraine to be able to retaliate. President Biden has indicated that the administration is working on this issue, though a final decision has not yet been announced.

Putin says NATO will go to war with Russia if Ukraine uses Western long-range missiles to attack Russian territory

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned late Thursday that he would view such a deal as NATO's direct entry into a war. "It would mean that NATO countries, the United States and European countries are at war with Russia," he said.

Congressional Pressure and International Reactions

U.S. lawmakers from both parties have intensified their calls for lifting restrictions. A bipartisan group, including Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Ben Cardin, has urged the administration to act. They argue that easing restrictions would help Ukraine defend itself more effectively and pressure Russia.

Cardin noted that while some European allies have been hesitant, there is growing acceptance of allowing Ukraine to use weapons inside Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to discuss his proposals and the need for further support during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly.