Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed on Friday that the US and the UK have not authorized Kyiv to use Western-supplied long-range missiles to strike targets inside Russia, citing concerns over escalating hostilities.
Zelensky, speaking ahead of his upcoming U.S. trip, expressed hope that President Joe Biden might change his stance, noting previous shifts in Biden’s decisions regarding Ukraine.
Zelensky acknowledged that both the U.S. and the UK were hesitant to allow long-range strikes for fear of triggering further escalation, but hinted at potential discussions with Biden during his visit.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that any Ukrainian use of Western long-range missiles on Russian territory would signify NATO involvement in the conflict.
Zelensky remains hopeful that Biden, with four months left in office, could take “historic” actions to support Ukraine.
