Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a personal appearance at the 24th Ramstein meeting in Germany, intensifying his plea for long-range weapons to strike Russian military targets. Zelensky emphasized the urgent need for such capabilities, revealing that Russia launches approximately 4,000 bombs per month against Ukrainian territory. He specifically requested permission to use Western-supplied weapons for deep strikes into Russian territory, targeting military airfields 100-150 kilometers from the border.In response, the United States announced a new $250 million aid package for Ukraine. However, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin maintained the existing restrictions on long-range strikes into Russian territory. Austin argued that providing long-range missiles such as ATACMS wouldn’t decisively change the war’s outcome, noting that Russia has already moved its aircraft beyond the range of these systems.’Ukraine already has significant capabilities to attack targets that are beyond the capabilities of ATACMS or Storm Shadow,’ Austin stated, emphasizing that the US is focused on helping Ukraine defend its territory more effectively. This stance has frustrated Ukrainian officials, who feel they are being forced to fight with limited options.Despite these restrictions, other allies have pledged additional support. Germany committed to delivering 12 more Panzerhaubitzen 2000 artillery systems, while the UK promised 650 lightweight, multi-role missiles worth $213.13 million.Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s recent gains, claiming to have seized 500 square miles of Russian territory and inflicted significant casualties on Russian forces. However, he stressed that current air defense systems, including those provided by Italy, are insufficient to counter all Russian attacks. The situation remains critical, with Russian forces continuing their offensive in the east and targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
Key points
- Zelensky attended the Ramstein meeting, requesting permission for long-range strikes into Russian territory.
- The US announced a new $250 million aid package but maintained restrictions on long-range strikes.
- Ukraine claims Russia launches about 4,000 bombs monthly, emphasizing the need for better air defense.
- Germany and other allies pledged additional military support, including artillery systems and missiles.
Contradictions👾While Zelensky emphasizes the need for long-range strike capabilities, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin argues that such weapons wouldn’t decisively change the war’s outcome.
👾Zelensky claims significant territorial gains, but also stresses the inadequacy of current air defense systems to counter Russian attacks.
