Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona believes that Ukraine’s recent incursion into Russian territory could significantly change the course of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
On August 6, Ukraine began its military invasion of Russia’s Kursk region. Kursk Oblast is of historical importance as it was the scene of a decisive battle between Soviet and Nazi forces in 1943 during World War II.
Kelly said in the interview for CBS that at this point in the incursion, 130,000 Russians had to leave their homes.
“The Ukrainians have done something unforeseeable that could change the course of the conflict,” said the senator.
The Democratic senator expressed support for Ukraine’s actions and said, “I’m at that point,” when asked how comfortable he was with the possible use of American weapons on Russian soil.
Kelly argued that Ukraine’s response was justified given the nature of the Russian invasion: “Vladimir Putin attacked the Ukrainians illegally. … He deliberately kills women, children, old people. It was an illegal invasion.”
Kelly called the Ukrainian operation an “incursion” and suggested it may have been a temporary measure. “I don’t think the Ukrainians intentionally want to hold Russian territory for a long period of time, but that has embarrassed Putin,” he explained.
The Senator stressed the need for ongoing evaluation of US support for Ukraine, stating: “Since the invasion, we should reevaluate how we behave toward the Ukrainians when it comes to using the security assistance we provide them. And I think it is appropriate to continue to be attentive to their needs.”
According to the report, Ukraine’s recent military actions on Russian territory, including the destruction of a second bridge in Kursk Oblast, are seen as attempts to reduce pressure on Ukrainian defense positions and thus potentially improve Ukraine’s position in future peace negotiations.
Kelly said these developments could challenge Putin’s image as Russia’s protector. “He always tried to portray himself as someone who would protect Russia,” said Kelly. “I think his citizens are seeing the consequences of what he did in Ukraine and now they are in some ways in danger.”
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