Some EU countries already allow Ukraine to use provided weapons against legitimate military targets within Russia. However, following the decision made by the US administration, more European countries are likely to follow this example.
This belief was expressed today in Brussels by EU High Representative Josep Borrell, ahead of the EU Foreign Ministers’ Council (Defense Affairs), as reported by a Ukrinform correspondent.
"The United States made an important decision, and I certainly applaud it. After extensive discussions, President Biden allowed the use of long-range (American) weapons, with a 300-kilometer range, on Russian territory. This is very good news for Ukrainians, as they had requested it. Now, the US has granted this permission. In Europe, this issue falls under national competence," said Borrell.
He noted that some member countries are already doing this—openly allowing Ukraine to use provided weapons against Russian troops on Russian territory. Others do so without making loud statements. There is also a category of countries that remained silent during the discussion of this issue at the EU Foreign Ministers’ Council meeting yesterday.
"But I am confident that they will follow the example of the US and allow Ukrainians to use the weapons provided by EU countries to fight Russian forces on Russian territory, because it is from Russian territory that they (Ukrainians) are under attack. And this fully complies with international law. I think we will discuss this today. I hope member countries will follow the US decision," added the EU High Representative.
Today in Brussels, a meeting of EU defense ministers is taking place, with the main issue being continued support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
