German Defense Minister admits Western weapons could be used to strike deep into Russia
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said that it is permissible for Ukraine to use Western weapons to strike targets in Russia, Tagesschau reports.
During a speech in Berlin, Pistorius noted that international law does not prohibit such actions. However, the decision on whether to allow such use remains with the countries supplying the weapons, the Minister added.
Pistorius stressed that the United States and the United Kingdom may be on the verge of allowing their weapons to be used to strike Russia.
"Partners who supply weapons are free to make their own decisions," the Defense Minister says.
Commenting on the possible reaction of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, who may regard such actions as an escalation of the conflict, Pistorius said: "Putin's threats are just threats. He threatens when he wants to and lures when he wants to."
Permission to strike deep into Russia
Ukraine has been receiving long-range missiles from the UK, the US, and France, but strikes on Russian territory are still under restrictions.
White House spokesperson John Kirby said that the US continues to hold closed-door talks with Ukraine on the issue.
US President Joe Biden is expected to meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer soon, and one of the topics of discussion will be the possibility of the Ukrainian Armed Forces launching strikes on Russian territory.