US‑Poland talks could greenlight Ukraine's long-range strikes
Permitting Ukraine to use long-range missiles to strike targets in Russia is a primary topic being discussed during the US Secretary of State's visit to Poland. Antony Blinken will address the issue, among others, during meetings with the President and the Prime Minister.
The United States has not officially ruled out giving Kyiv the green light to use long-range weapons to strike within Russia. President Joe Biden does not rule out allowing Ukraine to launch such missiles, admitted US Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the beginning of the week in an interview with Sky News. This statement was in response to reports that Iran had supplied Moscow with short-range weapons.
According to WP, the issue of Ukraine using long-range weapons will also arise during discussions in Poland. Government sources admit that, following Blinken's visit to Ukraine, consultations are ongoing with other allies, including British Foreign Secretary David Lammy. "The Prime Minister will communicate the position of the Polish government on this matter," two government sources stated.
On Friday, US President Joe Biden will meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss allowing Ukrainian armed forces to carry out attacks on Russian territory. Allies anticipate that the meeting may help speed up the decision-making process.
Zelensky appeals for US consent
Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasized during the visit of the US and British foreign ministers that it is important for Ukraine to obtain permission as soon as possible to use long-range weapons supplied by the United States and other partners. Kyiv has been appealing to Washington for months to allow attacks on Russian targets deep within Russia.
Antony Blinken landed in Warsaw around 9 AM GMT. Meetings are planned with the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski, and representatives of the Ministry of National Defence. Security issues and energy matters, including constructing a nuclear power plant in Poland, will be discussed.
The U.S. embassy said the visit underscores the strong and lasting partnership between the United States and Poland, emphasizing their joint dedication to assisting Ukraine in its defense against Russia's unwarranted aggression. The Secretary's visit highlights the vital role of the alliance and the significance of ongoing collaboration in tackling global issues.
During his visit to Kyiv, Antony Blinken noted that concerns about escalating the war as a result of attacks deep within Russian territory using US-supplied missiles is one factor the United States is considering when deciding on lifting the ban on such attacks. Nonetheless, it is not intended to be the sole or decisive factor.
