On August 30, 2024, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and the head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak will travel to Washington with one of the most important missions since the beginning of the unprovoked Russia-Ukraine war. They intend to seek permission from the Biden administration to use long-range weapons to strike military targets in Russia. The visit has become critical in Russia’s recent massive attacks on August, 26-28, which significantly damaged Ukrainian civilian infrastructure and resulted in numerous civilian casualties.
The Ukrainian delegation plans to provide the US Administration with a list of priority military targets in Russia. According to Politico, this is an attempt to push the US officials to lift restrictions on the use of American weapon against Russian territory, in particular ATACMS missiles. For now, the Biden Administration continues its restrained policy, citing the risk of escalation and the limited number of US missiles. It is worth noting that Russia has already relocated many key military facilities, including aviation, away from the border, which to some extent reduces the potential of Ukrainian strikes.
The US decision not to lift the restrictions on U.S. weapons being used inside Russia may be explained by several factors. First, Washington saves ATACMS missiles for future strategically important operations, such as a possible assault on Crimea. Second, the US is waiting for an appropriate domestic or foreign policy event to make this decision at the right moment strategically and politically.
Earlier, the UK, France and the Netherlands have already given Ukraine permission to use long-range weapons. These countries have become important allies in the fight against Russian aggression, understanding the need to provide Ukraine with the ability to defend its territory and people.
The recent massive Russian attacks on Ukraine, which took place from August 26 to 28, resulted in significant civilian casualties. According to the latest data, more than 40 people were killed and dozens were injured as a result of these strikes. These brutal attacks on peaceful cities in Ukraine highlight the need to provide the country with a weapon to defend itself and effectively counter Russian aggression.
Ukraine’s right to use long-range weapons against military targets on Russian soil is crucial not only for Ukraine, but for the whole of Europe. It will protect civilian infrastructure and save thousands of lives under constant threat of Russian aggression.
Vladimir Putin and his propagandists have repeatedly threatened European countries such as Poland, Lithuania and Latvia. This cannot be ignored. Moreover, the occupied territories in Georgia and Moldova show that Russia is already carrying out aggressive actions outside Ukraine, which highlights the need for international counteraction to Russia’s imperial ambitions. It must be stopped for peace and stability in the region.