White House responds to Putin’s threats over Ukrainian strikes on Russia
Photo: White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre (Getty Images)
Threats from Russian leader Vladimir Putin regarding allowing Ukraine to strike Russia with Western missiles represent highly dangerous rhetoric, though it is not unprecedented, according to White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
The spokesperson characterized the rhetoric voiced by the Russian leader as nothing new for Russia and added that it has been a main message of Russian propaganda in their war.
Jean-Pierre noted that the war in Ukraine could end if Russia withdraws its troops from Ukraine. However, she stated that the White House has not changed its stance on strikes against Russian rear areas.
"There was no change in policy. You’ve seen the President’s commitment — continued commitment to making sure that Ukraine has everything that they need to fight for their democracy," she said.
US missile strikes on Russia's rear
The Ukrainian government has long requested that the US allow strikes with American missiles on military airfields in the Russian rear. This would enable the destruction of Russia's strategic aviation, which constantly attacks Ukraine with ballistic missiles and guided bombs.
Previously, the US permitted the Ukrainian armed forces to strike Russian targets only within 100 kilometers of the Kharkiv border area.
Recently, US President Joe Biden planned to meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss authorizing Ukrainian forces to target objectives in Russia's rear.
However, the White House has confirmed that the US position on strikes remains unchanged and assured that no major announcements on this topic are expected following the meeting. The dialogue will continue in a private format.
According to media reports, Putin may respond to strikes on Russian territory with numerous sabotage actions against US military forces.
