European Union’s Defense Ministers Debate Ukrainian Attacks on Russian Territory with Missiles

The defense ministers of the European Union met on Tuesday to discuss the possibility of granting permission to Kyiv for the Ukrainian Armed Forces to attack Russian territory. Initially, Ukraine lacked the capability to attack Russians on their own territory, with limited weapons and a weak Air Force. However, as European countries, the United States, and Canada have started sending more sophisticated weapons to Ukraine, this has changed.

Ukraine is now receiving missiles that could be used to attack Russian bases near the border from its territory. The potential to attack Crimea, the Ukrainian province occupied by Moscow since 2014, is also a focus. One such weapon that remains highly sought after is the German Taurus missile, with a range of 500 kilometers.

However, there is debate within the EU about whether to grant permission for Ukraine to attack Russian bases. While some governments believe it could be a way to help Ukraine, there is no unanimous agreement. Josep Borrell, the ‘European Chancellor’, discussed this issue with the 27 Defense Ministers but did not reach a consensus.

Borrell argued that allowing Ukraine to attack military targets in Russia could be a legitimate option under international law. However, ultimately it will be up to each EU member state to decide what Kyiv can do with the weapons provided. Some countries are in favor of such actions while others remain hesitant or opposed. France has indicated support for Ukraine using French weapons for such attacks.

Overall, this situation remains complex and uncertain as EU member states navigate the implications of potentially allowing Ukraine to attack Russian bases.