US Policy on Ukraine’s use of long-range strikes against Russia unchanged, Pentagon

The United States’ stance on Ukraine’s use of long-range, deep strikes on Russian territory with US-supplied weapons has not changed, Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder confirmed during a recent briefing.

When questioned about restrictions on Ukraine’s use of the US.-provided arms, Ryder said “”our policy has not changed. You’ve heard us say that the Ukrainians can use US security assistance to defend themselves against cross-border attacks, in other words, to counterattack. However, regarding long-range strikes, deep strikes in Russia, our policy remains the same.”

Ryder emphasized that the US will continue its close cooperation with Ukraine and international allies to support the country in its defense efforts.

“We intend to continue consulting closely with our Ukrainian partners, as well as our allies and partners around the world, on how best to support Ukraine in ensuring a free and sovereign nation capable of deterring future Russian aggression,” Ryder added.

This statement comes after Russia launched a large-scale combined attack on Ukraine yesterday, involving 127 missiles and 109 drones, resulting in significant destruction, damage, and civilian casualties. In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy renewed his call for international partners to lift restrictions on the use of supplied weapons.