The German government has officially granted permission for Ukraine to deploy German-supplied weapons against military targets within Russia. This decision aligns with a similar stance taken by the United States, marking a significant shift in Western support for Ukraine amidst ongoing hostilities.

German Defense Minister, Boris Pistorius, confirmed the policy change, stating, "Ukraine has the right to defend itself and to deter further aggression by any necessary means, including using our weapons within Russian territory."

This development comes as Ukrainian officials report that several Russian missiles struck civilian buildings in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city. The attack resulted in at least three fatalities and over a dozen injuries, local authorities said.

"These are heinous acts targeting civilians, showing the extent of Russia's disregard for human life," said Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov. Emergency services are currently on the scene, providing aid to the injured and assessing the damage.

In response to questions about potential escalation, NATO General Secretary Jens Stoltenberg dismissed Russian threats that the use of US-supplied weapons within Russia would intensify the conflict. "We must remember who the aggressor is," Stoltenberg stated. "Ukraine's actions are defensive. Any further escalation is solely the responsibility of Russia."

This latest support measure from Germany and the US highlights the West's continuing commitment to Ukraine's defense amid the protracted conflict. As the situation develops, international observers will be closely monitoring the impacts of these policy shifts on the broader conflict dynamics.