US security official states that the Russian advance in Kharkiv is not advancing significantly.
Recent developments in the conflict in northeastern Ukraine, specifically in the Kharkiv region, reveal a halt in the Russian military offensive, as per an evaluation from US National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan. During an interview with US broadcaster CBS, Sullivan stated, "The pace of this attack in Kharkiv has slowed down considerably." Though Kharkiv remains vulnerable to Russian attacks, progress has been limited in recent days.
Additionally, Ukraine was allowed to use American weaponry in response to the threat from Russia, as President Joe Biden eased restrictions in late May. "From Biden's point of view, this was a no-brainer. It wasn't logical to deny the Ukrainians the right to fire back at enemy weapons and positions," Sullivan commented.
Following this move, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) approved the use of German weapons by Ukraine against targets along the Russian border. Russian forces had made significant advances in the Kharkiv region since mid-May, but with Biden's decision, the situation appears to have changed.
Biden's visit to France on Friday included a visit to mark the 80th anniversary of the Allied landing in Normandy and a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. During their discussion, Biden reinforced his backing for Ukraine and announced a new $225 million (€208 million) aid package for the country.
In a press conference after the encounter at the Elysee Palace in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron, Biden made it clear that Putin would not be unchallenged in Ukraine. "He's not going to sit still; all of Europe is at risk. We won't let that happen," the President emphasized.
