EU Urged to Lift Weapon Restrictions, Allow Ukraine to Strike Inside Russia
August 30, 2024Josep Borrell, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, has called on EU countries to lift restrictions on Ukraine's use of weapons against Russian military targets.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba echoed this sentiment, urging the EU to allow the use of weapons supplied to Ukraine for operations within Russian territory.
Currently, the U.S. and several EU nations impose limits on the use of long-range ballistic missiles provided to Ukraine, which Kuleba argues hinders effective targeting of Russian military installations.
Borrell emphasized that allowing Ukraine to strike military targets inside Russia is crucial for effectively countering attacks and enhancing self-defense.
He praised Ukraine for its bold counterattacks, which he believes have significantly undermined Russian President Vladimir Putin's narrative regarding the war.
Borrell described Ukraine's recent offensive in Kursk as a significant setback for Putin, highlighting its impact on the overall conflict.
In light of recent drone and missile attacks by Russia, Borrell stressed the critical importance of air defense systems for Ukraine's protection.
Kuleba has called for the swift delivery of promised military aid, specifically mentioning the urgent need for Patriot air defense systems to safeguard against Russian threats.
The EU has begun utilizing profits from frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine militarily, having already transferred 1.4 billion euros to aid its defense efforts.
During an informal EU meeting in Brussels, Kuleba is expected to press for permission to use Western-supplied weapons on Russian territory, reinforcing the need for a unified stance against the invasion.
NATO countries are increasingly advocating for the removal of restrictions on Ukraine's weapon use, with Poland's foreign minister supporting full freedom for Ukraine to utilize supplied arms.
As the situation evolves, Ukrainian forces continue to face Russian attacks, notably around Pokrovsk, while also claiming responsibility for strikes on Russian military installations.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Aug 22, 2024
Ukraine war briefing: Long-range strikes a must against Russian aggression, says EU’s BorrellThe Guardian • Aug 29, 2024
Russia-Ukraine war live: one killed in Ukrainian shelling in Russia’s Belgorod regionYahoo News • Aug 21, 2024
EU foreign affairs chief calls Kursk offensive 'severe blow' to Putin