Mainz, Germany: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appeared before international supporters at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Friday, urging Western allies to supply more advanced weaponry, including long-range missiles capable of striking inside Russia. Zelenskyy’s appeal comes as Ukraine faces mounting Russian aggression, underscored by a devastating missile attack in Poltava that left 55 dead and 300 injured.
The meeting, hosted by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, is part of ongoing efforts by Ukraine to secure military support from its Western allies. Zelenskyy made it clear that long-range missiles are crucial for Ukraine not only to defend its own territory but also to strike targets within Russia. “We need to have this long-range capability not only on the occupied territory of Ukraine, but also on the Russian territory, yes, so that Russia is motivated to seek peace,” Zelenskyy said.
U.S. Long-Range Weapons Aid to Ukraine?
Reports suggest that the United States is nearing a decision on supplying Ukraine with Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM), a move that would significantly extend Kyiv’s military reach into Russian territory. While no official announcement has been made, sources quoted by Reuters expect a decision to be reached this autumn.
The potential delivery of JASSM could escalate the conflict, making Russia more vulnerable to long-range Ukrainian strikes, a development that would dramatically change the course of the war. However, the U.S. has yet to finalize its position on this matter.
Also Read | Vinesh Phogat Resigns from Indian Railways Amid Speculation of Congress Candidacy
Medvedev’s Threat to Poland
As Ukraine continues to push for advanced weapons, Russia has issued threats concerning the consequences of Western support. Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s Deputy Chairman of the Security Council, warned that the provision of long-range missiles to Ukraine could prompt Russian military action extending into NATO member Poland.
Medvedev, speaking to Russian news agency TASS, said, “Obviously, we need to create a buffer zone for the future to ensure that nothing flies in. Its size is anyone’s guess, but it should be sufficient. If they [Ukrainians] wish to get long-range means of attack, such as cruise and ballistic missiles, then this buffer zone should stretch as far as Poland.”
Also Read | Egypt Rejects Russian Aircraft, Chooses American C-130J Super Hercules
Possible NATO Involvement?
Poland, a NATO member since 1999, would trigger Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty if attacked, meaning an assault on Poland would be considered an attack on all NATO members. This would likely lead to a collective military response, putting the entire alliance on high alert.
The possibility of direct Russian military action against Poland raises concerns over NATO’s involvement in the conflict, further complicating an already volatile situation in Eastern Europe.
