Mayor Ihor Terekhov of Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city that has been under attack by Russia, stated that the use of foreign weapons to strike missile launch positions in Russia has helped reduce the number of attacks on his city. President Joe Biden approved the use of American weapons to strike targets inside Russia to defend Kharkiv. Terekhov emphasized the need for Western air defenses to protect Kharkiv, as the city has seen heavy bombardment in recent months. While missile and drone strikes continue, Terekhov noted that the ability to strike inside Russia has brought relative calm to Kharkiv.
Terekhov, speaking through a translator in Berlin at a conference aimed at garnering European support for Ukraine, revealed that approximately 11,500 people had arrived in Kharkiv from regions actively targeted by Russian attacks. He also underscored the importance of timely delivery of Western air defense systems to help intercept Russian drones and missiles. The lack of suitable weapons and political delays in Washington have hindered allied efforts to provide Ukraine with the necessary defense equipment. Despite the recent reduction in attacks on Kharkiv due to strikes on missile launch positions in Russia, the city remains vulnerable to continued threats.
The city of Kharkiv and the surrounding region have faced sustained bombardment from Russian forces, resulting in damage to civilian infrastructure and energy facilities. Russian attacks on Kharkiv have intensified in recent months, leading to casualties and destruction. Moscow’s forces have made incremental progress along the eastern front, trying to advance further into the northeastern Kharkiv region. Russia’s targeting of Kharkiv has caused civilian casualties and destruction, including deadly bombings at a printing works and a hardware store in May.
The use of foreign weapons to target missile launch positions in Russia has helped reduce the number of attacks on Kharkiv, according to Mayor Ihor Terekhov. President Joe Biden’s approval of American weapons to defend the city has played a crucial role in bringing relative calm to Kharkiv, amidst ongoing missile and drone strikes. Terekhov’s plea for Western air defenses highlights the urgent need for timely delivery of defense systems to protect Kharkiv from further Russian attacks. The city continues to face threats from Russian bombs and missiles, emphasizing the importance of bolstering its defense capabilities to ensure the safety of its residents amidst the conflict.
