US plans to permit Ukraine’s long range missile attack on Russia – Axios

Reports suggest that Washington is planning to remove restrictions on Ukraine’s use of US-provided ATACMS missiles to target deep inside Russian territory, with a potential policy change announcement during US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s upcoming visit to Kiev. The restrictions were initially put in place to allow deniability of direct involvement in the conflict while supporting Ukraine financially. The move comes after claims that Iran supplied Russia with ballistic missiles, prompting a rethink of policy.

In response to these allegations, Iran has vehemently denied any involvement, calling the claims a form of psychological warfare. Meanwhile, Russian officials have accused the West of being deeply entwined in the conflict and have raised concerns about the arming of Kiev. The situation is expected to be discussed at the UN Security Council meeting later this week.

These developments come amidst ongoing tensions in the region, with Ukraine reportedly seeking approval to strike Russian targets with long-range weapons. The escalation of hostilities has already led to casualties, including a recent drone attack in Moscow Region. The situation remains fragile as international actors navigate the complex geopolitical landscape.