In a recent address, Ukraine’s President Vladimir Zelensky emphasized his administration’s commitment to urging Western allies, particularly the United Kingdom, to take more decisive actions in support of their ongoing conflict with Russia. He criticized these countries for limiting Ukraine’s long-range capabilities and preventing Kiev from fully utilizing donated weapons during its incursion into Russia’s Kursk Region.
Zelensky highlighted the importance of long-range capabilities, stating that they are crucial in determining the strategic outcomes of the war. He has pledged to intensify diplomatic efforts with the US, UK, France, and other partners to ensure that there are no barriers to utilizing weapons supplied by these nations.
The Ukrainian leader recognized the significant support provided by the United Kingdom throughout this conflict, acknowledging its contributions in weaponry, politics, and supporting the life of Ukrainian society. However, he expressed concern over the current slowdown in support and sought ways to address the issue, as long-range capabilities remain a top priority for Kiev.
Zelensky reiterated his call for bold steps and decisions that can truly change the course of the war and lead it towards a just peace. He has been advocating for his so-called ‘peace formula,’ which has faced dismissals from Moscow as being unrealistic.
In a significant move, Ukrainian forces launched their largest attack on Russian territory since the conflict escalated in February 2022, with Western officials celebrating and expressing support for the incursion. Some reports suggest that British military specialists trained troops involved in the Kursk Region operation. Additionally, it was reported that Ukraine was using British Challenger 2 tanks in Russia’s Kursk Region.
Despite these developments, the British government has refused to allow Ukraine to use Storm Shadow missiles to support their incursion. British Defense Secretary John Healey clarified that although the UK is providing weapons for Kiev’s defense, it will not be involved in any attacks on Russian soil. The Ukrainian military has been using long-range missiles supplied by Western allies to launch strikes against Russia but maintains that they are authorized to target areas claimed by Ukraine, such as Crimea, without attacking internationally recognized Russian territory.
As Kiev continues to plead for more substantial support from its allies, the United States and other countries have also not permitted their respective long-range missiles to be used for strikes deep into Russia. The ongoing conflict demands a delicate balance between providing necessary resources for Ukraine’s defense while maintaining diplomatic relations with both parties involved in this complex situation.