Ukraine confirmed the use of US-supplied HIMARS weapons in attacks on Russian bridges in Kursk. Russia accused Kyiv of using Western weapons in the incursion, including the HIMARS system. Speculation suggested UK Challenger 2 tanks were also used. Germany, a major supplier of weapons to Ukraine, provided Marder infantry fighting vehicles, Leopard tanks, air defense systems, drones, and rocket launch systems.
Thirteen NATO countries, including the US, UK, France, and Germany, allowed Ukraine to use their weapons in Russia. The US initially restricted Ukraine’s use of weapons in Russian territory until President Biden eased the ban in May. However, limitations remain, with concerns about targeting nonmilitary sites or escalating conflict with Russia.
Russia criticized Western countries for supplying weapons to Ukraine and appeared disorganized in its response. The West maintained low-key responses to Ukraine’s use of their weapons in Russia, with the UK and Germany confirming the legality of the transfers. Ukraine called for lifting restrictions on long-range missiles to strike Russian territory.
The Kursk offensive dealt a blow to Russian President Putin’s narrative, as Russia reorganized its Defense Ministry amid the conflict. Western promises of weapons to Ukraine triggered threats of nuclear use and retribution from Putin. The disarray in Russia’s response indicated a chaotic military mechanism. Ukraine asserted its right to self-defense and called for lifting restrictions on Western weapons to counter Russian aggression.
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