Kyiv: Ukrainian forces reportedly launched an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), a US-manufactured light multiple rocket launcher, targeting the border city of Belgorod, as claimed by Russia. This marks the initial deployment of US-supplied HIMARS into Russia during the ongoing conflict.
The incident unfolded following Washington’s decision to lift restrictions on the utilization of its munitions against Moscow. According to local sources, on June 1st, Belgorod experienced a barrage of nearly 40 explosions within a span of 15 minutes.
In response to escalating Russian offensives on Ukrainian territories, the US granted “limited rights” to Ukraine for the application of US-made weaponry on military objectives within Russia. Subsequently, Kyiv directed Western-supplied armaments towards Russian territories. However, Ukrainian authorities have yet to officially address Russia’s allegations.
The United States authorized strikes solely within proximity to the Kharkiv border region, overturning a two-year prohibition on Ukrainian attacks on Russian targets with US weaponry. Such actions risk NATO involvement in a direct confrontation with Russia. Nevertheless, the relaxation of restrictions occurred in light of Russia’s advancements in various Ukrainian regions, particularly Donetsk and Kharkiv. Consequently, the US adjusted its policies to bolster defense efforts in Kharkiv.
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In a noteworthy development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused China of aiding Russia in undermining an upcoming peace conference organized by Switzerland to address the conflict in Ukraine, as reported by The Independent.
President Zelensky raised concerns during an Asia-Pacific security conference, highlighting alleged Chinese pressure on other nations and their leaders to abstain from participating in the forthcoming talks, albeit without specifying details.
