Zelenskyy spoke about the use of Western weapons on Russian territory

Zelenskyy spoke about the use of Western weapons on Russian territory

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the visit of US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken had several important goals. In addition to announcing a new aid package worth $2 million, the official brought US proposals on security guarantees to Kyiv; the important issue of Ukraine’s air defense and its strengthening was also discussed.

Zelenskyy stated this during a conversation with reporters on May 17. The head of state also explained why he considers possible bans by partners on strikes on Russian territory not entirely appropriate.

Answering a question about the purpose of Blinken’s visit to Kyiv the other day, Zelenskyy emphasized that several important topics were discussed at once.

“Firstly, a package of $2 billion (Blinken announced its allocation at a briefing in Kyiv - Ed.). Secondly, proposals from the United States on security guarantees. The draft of the Treaty on Security Guarantees is already in place. Thirdly, we have discussed our vision of the NATO Summit. They heard our vision, accepted this information and will return with feedback,” the president listed.

However, he considers the main issue under discussion to be strengthening the air defense of our state against the backdrop of brutal attacks by the Russian Federation.

“The main question is air defense. At what stage is the dialogue with this or that country that has the appropriate systems. Where do we see them, where do our partners see them, when can this happen and what needs to be done for this,” Zelenskyy noted.

He also commented on Blinken’s widespread statement that Ukraine itself should decide whether to strike at Russian territory or not. The media interpreted it as Washington’s permission to use American weapons for such attacks.

“I don’t think there should be any bans, because this is not about the offensive of the Ukrainian army using Western weapons on Russian territory. This is protection. This is the same as the preventive sanctions that we told everyone about before a full-scale invasion. This is exactly what it is. This is a warning. And what’s more, they have the same gray zone there, and they also have almost no control over the border civilians, for obvious reasons,” said Zelenskyy.