Ukraine’s allies have been sending weapons to Kyiv without restrictions on their use, including strikes inside Russia, according to Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braze. While Ukraine has been requesting longer-range weapons from Western allies, there has been hesitation in providing arms that could potentially be used to target Russian territory. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that weapons supplied by foreign partners will not be used to hit targets outside of Ukraine’s borders. This restriction does not apply to domestically produced weapons, some of which are capable of striking deep into Russia. Braze emphasized that Ukraine needs the capabilities to conduct deep precision strikes, even against targets on Russian territory.
Some countries have already provided Ukraine with weapons without restrictions on strikes within Russia, although not all of these deals have been made public. The main priority, according to Braze, is the impact on the battlefield rather than loudly announcing such actions. Ukraine has received long-range missiles from various allies, including the UK, France, and the US. Reports indicate that the US has sent more than 100 long-range ATACMS missiles to Kyiv, which Ukrainian forces have reportedly used to strike targets in Russian-occupied territories, including Crimea. This demonstrates a shift in the flow of US military aid to Ukraine, with a significant package of weapons and equipment being sent from US stockpiles to support Kyiv’s defense efforts.
The renewed flow of US military aid to Ukraine includes a $1 billion package of weapons and equipment from US stockpiles, as announced by the Pentagon. This surge in munitions and weaponry is aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the face of ongoing conflict with Russia. The US has faced delays and frustrations in providing military aid to Ukraine, but this recent announcement signals a significant commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts. The weapons and equipment being sent from the US are expected to enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression and ensure its independence and sovereignty.
The use of Western-supplied weapons by Ukraine, including long-range missiles, raises questions about the potential for strikes on Russian territory. While President Zelensky has stated that Ukraine will not use foreign-supplied weapons to target areas outside its borders, there are reports of Ukrainian forces successfully using these weapons to strike Russian-occupied territories. The delivery of weapons from Western allies, such as the UK, France, and the US, reflects a growing level of support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. The provision of long-range missiles and other weaponry is intended to give Ukraine the ability to defend itself effectively and deter further aggression from Russia.
The situation in Ukraine underscores the importance of international support for countries facing external threats and aggression. By providing weapons and military aid to Ukraine, Western allies are signaling their commitment to upholding international law and supporting Ukraine’s right to defend itself against external attacks. The delivery of long-range missiles and other advanced weaponry to Ukraine demonstrates a willingness to stand with Kyiv in the face of Russian aggression. This support is crucial for Ukraine’s ability to maintain its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of ongoing conflict with Russia. The provision of weapons without restrictions on strikes inside Russia reflects a shift in the approach to supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts and challenging Russian aggression.
