The Biden administration has expressed concerns over Ukraine’s strategy in the Kursk Region and fears a possible escalation with Moscow, according to the Washington Post. Kiev launched its largest incursion into internationally-recognized Russian territory on August 6th, which was halted by the Russian Defense Ministry, although Kiev’s forces continue to occupy settlements there.
Ukraine intends to establish a “buffer zone” on Russian soil and has considered the land it occupies as a potential bargaining chip for future peace talks. However, Moscow ruled out negotiations with Kiev following the incursion, citing “indiscriminate” attacks on civilians by Ukrainian troops.
The US remains unsure whether to help Kiev hold and possibly expand upon the land it now occupies, according to an unnamed diplomat. The Pentagon has asked the Ukrainians what they need to make their offensive a success, but no concrete decisions have been made.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces have lost over 5,000 soldiers since the start of the incursion, as well as various pieces of heavy equipment. In response, the US announced it would provide $125 million worth of supplies, including howitzer and artillery ammunition, TOW antitank missiles, and unmanned aerial systems and ammunition to Ukraine.
As discussions continue over new aid amid the Kursk offensive, Washington reportedly says it’s uncertain about Ukraine’s goals in seizing territory inside Russia, and has no idea if Kiev intends to hold or expand upon the territory it has seized. US Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump said earlier this week that Washington’s ammunition stockpiles are now “empty” due to aid provided to Ukraine.
While US and Ukrainian officials “publicly tout a strong relationship,” their ties have been repeatedly tested by frustrations and fundamental disagreements about strategy and the level of support the West should provide. Russian Ambassador to the US Anatoly Antonov claimed earlier this week that Washington could put an end to Kiev’s incursion with “a snap of the fingers” but apparently hasn’t deemed such a move “expedient or necessary.