Ukraine’s army has targeted missile launch positions in Russia, resulting in a reduction of attacks on the embattled city of Kharkiv, as reported by the city’s mayor to Reuters on Tuesday.
The decrease in attacks follows US President Joe Biden’s approval late last month for the use of American weapons to strike targets inside Russia, specifically those being used to target Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city near the Russian border.
According to Mayor Ihor Terekhov, while missile and drone strikes persist, the ability to strike inside Russia has contributed to a relative “calm” in Kharkiv. Terekhov mentioned that this change has resulted in fewer significant strikes compared to previous months.
Terekhov, speaking through a translator during a visit to a conference in Berlin aimed at garnering European support and investment in Ukraine, highlighted that approximately 11,500 people have sought refuge in Kharkiv from regions facing active bombardment.
Emphasizing the importance of Western air defenses to protect the city, Terekhov underscored Ukraine’s struggle to intercept incoming Russian drones and missiles due to a lack of suitable defense systems. He urged for timely delivery of these systems, especially multi-defense air systems.
Despite the reduced attacks, Russia launched three guided bombs at Kharkiv on Monday, damaging multiple houses, as confirmed by local officials, indicating the persistent threat faced by the city. Kharkiv and its surrounding region have endured intensified Russian attacks in recent months, targeting civilian and energy infrastructure.
As Moscow’s forces continue to advance along various fronts, including northeastern Kharkiv, the city remains a focal point of Russian aggression. Kharkiv has witnessed multiple devastating attacks in recent months, including strikes on a printing works and a DIY hardware store, resulting in numerous casualties.