US Bombs Used in Ukraine Strikes

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine's military has reported successful strikes in Russia's Kursk region using high-precision U.S. glide bombs, coinciding with a recapture of territory in the eastern Kharkiv region, which has been under Russian control since spring. Video footage released by Ukraine showed multiple explosions and smoke rising from the targeted areas. While many of Ukraine's allies advocate for the use of donated weapons solely for defensive purposes, U.S. officials have indicated support for Ukraine's use of shorter-range weapons in cross-border operations. White House national security spokesman John Kirby confirmed that U.S. officials maintain regular communication with their Ukrainian counterparts and have not altered guidance regarding the use of U.S. weaponry in the Kursk offensive. Kirby emphasized that President Biden has authorized the use of U.S. munitions to address imminent threats, allowing Ukraine to engage in operations beyond its borders. Despite Ukraine's recent momentum following the delayed delivery of U.S. weaponry, Russian officials reported some success in repelling Ukrainian advances in the Kursk region. A Ukrainian drone attack on a Russian air base in Volgograd caused significant damage, targeting facilities housing glide bombs used by Moscow. This incursion has exposed vulnerabilities within Russian defenses but has also stretched Ukrainian forces, potentially compromising their ability to defend against Russian advances in the Donetsk region. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have thwarted Ukrainian attempts to advance on villages in the Kursk region, while Ukraine's 3rd Separate Assault Brigade announced the capture of territory previously held by Russian forces. However, the Associated Press could not independently verify these claims, and there was no immediate response from Russia.