The United States has reaffirmed its policy allowing Ukraine to use American weapons to defend itself against Russian attacks originating from the Kursk region. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh emphasized that this policy supports Ukraine's right to counterfire, particularly in response to assaults affecting the Sumy region. While the U.S. is unclear about the specific objectives of Ukraine's operations in Kursk, it is aware that Ukrainian President Zelensky aims to establish a buffer zone there. Concerns have been raised among some U.S. officials about the potential strain on Ukrainian forces due to the Kursk operation. Additionally, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin plans to discuss the implications of this offensive with his Ukrainian counterpart. Critics argue that Ukraine's aggression in the Kursk region could exacerbate the conflict rather than lead to peace.