Ukraine’s Western Weapon Boost: Ukrainian Troops Use HIMARS Rockets to Target Russian Logistics Chains, Military Positions”.

Ukrainian soldiers in Kharkiv were ecstatic to finally have the chance to use Western weapons to defend against Russian forces, despite still being outnumbered. For months, soldiers at the 71st Forest Commando Brigade had been constrained by restrictions on using donated weapons against Russian targets. The Russian offensive in Kharkiv posed a significant threat to the city, prompting a change in Western policy that allowed Ukrainian forces to raid military targets in Russian territory near the border.

Ukrainian troops in Vovchansk, a heavily damaged city in Kharkiv province, welcomed the decision to use Western weapons for cross-border raids. They believed that targeting Russian logistics chains and military positions would help deter further advances into Kharkiv. The Chief of Staff of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Andriy Yermak, supported this strategy as a means of repelling Russian attacks and defending against incursions.

After restrictions were lifted, Ukrainian forces used HIMARS rocket launchers to attack Russian air defense systems across the border. While Russia remained silent on the attacks, Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines were optimistic that raids would help push back Russian forces and provide them with more strategic advantages. They acknowledged the dangers they faced, including glide bombs dropped by Russian aircraft, but believed increased aid from Western allies could help save Ukrainian lives.

The decision to allow raids on Russian territory was seen as a critical step towards leveling the playing field for Ukrainian forces. While war situation may not change dramatically, targeting Russian forces before they enter Ukraine was viewed as a significant advantage. Ukrainian soldiers were hopeful with continued support and resources that they could effectively defend against Russian aggression and protect their country.