Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a passionate plea to Sir Keir Starmer, urging him to “show your leadership” by advocating for the removal of restrictions on Ukraine’s use of Western-supplied weapons. Addressing a highly charged cabinet meeting in Downing Street, Zelensky underscored that the ability to strike Russian territory is crucial for preventing further attacks on Ukraine’s residential areas.
Defense Secretary John Healey, speaking earlier on the subject, clarified that the UK’s provision of arms to Ukraine does not restrict their use against Russian targets. However, he emphasized that such actions must be carried out by Ukrainians and within the parameters of international humanitarian law. Healey mentioned that intense discussions are ongoing regarding these complex issues but refrained from revealing details publicly.
Volodymyr Zelensky asked Sir Keir Starmer to “show your leadership” as he appealed for permission to strike Russian targets with Western weapons in an address to the UK Cabinet.
The Ukrainian president urged the British Government to help with Kyiv’s “long-range capability”. pic.twitter.com/9qMPkALBpa
— Radio News Hub (@radionewshub) July 19, 2024
Volodymyr Zelensky asked Sir Keir Starmer to “show your leadership” as he appealed for permission to strike Russian targets with Western weapons in an address to the UK Cabinet.
The Ukrainian president urged the British Government to help with Kyiv’s “long-range capability”. pic.twitter.com/9qMPkALBpa
— Radio News Hub (@radionewshub) July 19, 2024
During his visit to Downing Street, Zelensky expressed profound gratitude to the British government for its unwavering support, which he believes is instrumental in bringing an end to the war with Russia. He was welcomed with a standing ovation from senior ministers, marking the first time a foreign leader has addressed the UK cabinet in person since US President Bill Clinton in 1997.
Sir Keir Starmer pledged to “double down” on support for Ukraine, asserting that the resolve to stand with Ukraine transcends Parliament and resonates throughout the UK. He also accepted an invitation to visit Ukraine in the future.
Back in June, Ukraine received permission to use Western weapons to strike targets within Russia, a notable shift from the previous restriction limiting their use to occupied territories within Ukraine. However, this permission does not extend to long-range weapons capable of hitting deep into Russian territory, confining Ukraine to targeting areas near its border.
President Zelensky arriving at Downing Street, greeted by Sir Keir Starmer pic.twitter.com/mrYFPaoqlh
— Will Vernon (@BBCWillVernon) July 19, 2024
Earlier this month, a children’s hospital in Kyiv was struck by a wave of Russian missile attacks. During the cabinet meeting, Zelensky highlighted the dire need for long-range capabilities, insisting that President Vladimir Putin must be held accountable for his actions. “We need this step to force Russia to seek peace,” he declared. “Show your leadership and convince other partners to lift the restrictions.”
Zelensky’s visit also included the signing of a defense export support treaty aimed at bolstering military capabilities through investments from Ukrainian and British defense companies. This followed a European Political Community meeting at Blenheim Palace, where European leaders agreed to tackle Russia’s “shadow fleet” of 600 tankers evading sanctions on Russian oil. These vessels, carrying around 1.7 million barrels of oil per day, are also suspected of transporting weapons to Russia or acting as Russian listening stations.
Major Points
- Zelensky urged Sir Keir Starmer to advocate for lifting restrictions on Ukraine’s use of Western-supplied weapons to strike Russian territory.
- Defense Secretary John Healey stated that the UK’s provision of weapons does not prevent Ukraine from hitting Russian targets but must adhere to international law.
- Zelensky thanked the UK for its support, emphasizing its role in ending the war, and received a standing ovation from the cabinet.
- Sir Keir Starmer committed to increasing support for Ukraine and accepted an invitation to visit.
- Ukraine has been permitted to use Western weapons against Russian targets but faces restrictions on long-range weapon use.
Al Santana – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
