Amid growing NATO frustrations, Zelenskyy presses Biden for long-range missile approval to strengthen Ukraine against Russia.
LONDON — As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrives in Washington today, he’s facing growing frustration from Western allies about the Biden administration’s refusal to let Ukraine use Western long-range missiles for strikes inside Russia.
This issue is a top concern for Zelenskyy during his visit, but the U.S. has stood firm, leading to widespread criticism from NATO members.
Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, who has been a major supporter of Ukraine with military aid, criticized the focus on “red lines” at the U.N. General Assembly, saying these discussions are empowering Russia.
She believes discussions on restrictions should stop and that weapons use should be allowed, showing the impatience of allies in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Both Britain and France are ready to let Ukraine use the long-range missiles they’ve given, but they’re waiting for the U.S. to approve.
The U.S. is worried these strikes could lead to a strong response from Russia and that the benefits might not outweigh the risks.
However, Ukraine and its allies believe Putin’s threats are just for show.
As Zelenskyy visits White House, Ukrainian push to use long-range weapons continues https://t.co/SR0uNMY89q pic.twitter.com/1MRXtVHq2h
— Eyewitness News (@ABC7NY) September 26, 2024
Zelenskyy stressed the importance of long-range missiles, saying they could target Russian airbases that drop bombs on Eastern Ukraine.
He highlighted the U.S.’s crucial role in this situation, as allies wait for Biden’s decision.
In response to Ukraine’s requests, Putin has increased his threats, saying he could use nuclear weapons against countries seen as aggressors, especially those supported by nuclear powers.
This change in Russia’s nuclear strategy, announced this week, shows a readiness to see aggression from non-nuclear states as a “joint attack,” making the situation more complicated and showing Moscow’s resistance to Western views on the war.
Despite U.S. officials saying providing long-range missiles wouldn’t greatly affect the war, they might be overlooking Ukraine and its allies’ determination.
For example, the U.S. has given ATACMS missiles that can reach nearly 190 miles, but with Russia moving most of its aircraft to bases out of reach of these missiles, their effectiveness is limited, showing the delicate situation on the ground.
Germany, an important ally, is hesitant to provide its advanced missiles due to its leader’s stance on military involvement.
The Biden administration is struggling to manage the complexities of alliances and plan for Ukraine’s future.
This situation highlights the need for unity among Western allies and raises important questions about global security.
