Sat Sep 07 11:43:56 UTC 2024: ## Ukraine’s Bold Incursion into Russia Sparks Debate over Western Military Support

**London, UK** – Following Ukraine’s recent incursion into Russia’s Kursk oblast, Mathieu Boulègue, a research fellow at Chatham House, argues for a significant shift in Western military support. He believes that the US and its allies should urgently lift all restrictions on the use of Western equipment against Russian targets, including those within Russia.

Boulègue highlights the success of the Ukrainian operation, which caught Moscow off guard and boosted Ukrainian morale. He argues that the incursion, while not a decisive victory, serves a vital strategic purpose: to divert Russian forces from the Donbas front and buy Ukraine time to seize the initiative.

However, he acknowledges that Russia’s anti-terrorist response has already slowed Ukrainian progress, and the diversion may not be as effective as hoped. He warns that future success in Kursk hinges on developments elsewhere and on Russia’s willingness to escalate, potentially with devastating bombardments.

While the incursion has dashed hopes for peace negotiations, Boulègue argues that this is not necessarily a bad thing, as Ukraine has been pressured to accept unfavorable compromises. He emphasizes that the war cannot end on Russia’s terms and that Ukraine must be allowed to dictate its own peace process.

Ultimately, Boulègue believes that for Ukraine to win, it needs unwavering Western support. He calls for a comprehensive approach, including lifting restrictions on weapons use, strengthening international sanctions, and ensuring a credible deterrent against future Russian aggression. He concludes by advocating for Ukraine’s swift entry into NATO.

Boulègue’s argument is a powerful call for increased Western commitment to Ukraine’s victory. He argues that the stakes are high, not just for Ukraine, but for the entire international order. The incursion into Kursk has highlighted the need for decisive action to support Ukraine and prevent a dangerous precedent for future conflicts.

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