What's happened
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky continues to advocate for long-range missile capabilities from Western allies, emphasizing the urgent need for military support against Russian aggression. The U.S. and U.K. are deliberating on this request amid warnings from Russia about potential escalation.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that President Biden is expected to discuss the issue with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is advocating for Ukraine's use of long-range missiles. The Kremlin has responded with warnings, stating that such a move would mean NATO countries are at war with Russia. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelensky has expressed frustration over the slow response to his requests for military support, emphasizing the need for immediate action to counter Russian aggression. The Independent highlights Zelensky's gratitude towards allies who have supported Ukraine but stresses the urgency of fulfilling military commitments. The Moscow Times notes that Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has indicated that decisions regarding military responses have likely already been made, suggesting a heightened state of alert in Moscow.
How we got here
Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has sought advanced military support from Western nations. The debate over long-range missile capabilities has intensified as Ukraine aims to target deeper Russian military positions.
Common question
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Why is Ukraine Requesting Long-Range Weapons from Western Allies?
As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues to escalate, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is making a strong case for long-range missile capabilities from Western nations. This urgent request raises several important questions about military support, geopolitical implications, and the ongoing war dynamics. Below, we explore the key aspects surrounding Ukraine's call for long-range weapons.
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Why is Ukraine Requesting Long-Range Weapons from Allies?
As the conflict with Russia continues, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky is making a strong case for long-range missile capabilities. This request raises important questions about military strategy, international relations, and the potential consequences of such support. Here’s what you need to know about Ukraine's plea for long-range weapons and the responses from Western allies.
More on these topics
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. is an American politician who is the 46th and current president of the United States. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as the 47th vice president from 2009 to 2017 and represented Delaware in the United States Senate
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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Antony John Blinken is an American government official who served as United States Deputy Secretary of State from 2015 to 2017 and Deputy National Security Advisor from 2013 to 2015 under President Barack Obama.