Stoltenberg on using Western weapons to strike Russia: Ukraine has right to defend itself
Former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg (Getty Images)
Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russian aggression, which includes strikes on legitimate targets located within Russian territory, according to former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.
"We are having debates on this matter among allies. But we must always be aware that this is a brutal war, a blatant violation of all international rules, and an attempt by Russia to establish control over Ukraine. Ukraine has the right to defend itself. This right includes attacking legitimate military targets on Russian territory," he said.
According to Stoltenberg, Russia should not deceive Ukraine's Western partners with threats.
"From the very beginning, Russia has claimed that Western arms supplies are unacceptable. But we delivered arms. We cannot stop our support because of Russian threats," the former NATO Secretary General said.
Ukrainian strikes deep into Russia
For several months, Ukraine has been seeking permission from its Western partners to strike deep into Russian territory with foreign weapons. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently emphasized the need for long-range capabilities.
According to Zelenskyy, Russia launched hundreds of bombs and dozens of missiles at Ukraine last week. Additionally, the occupiers attacked Ukraine with 400 strike drones. In his opinion, partners can make decisions on sufficient long-range capabilities, provide the necessary quantity and quality of air defense systems, and ensure timely delivery of defense assistance.
