Ukraine, at its discretion, uses weapons systems received from allies, including the United States. The decision on the choice of targets remains with the Ukrainians.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced this, commenting on the possibility of providing American ATACMS missiles.
One of the journalists suggested that the Western allies are not providing Ukraine with long-range ATACMS and Taurus missiles, fearing that it will begin to use them on Russian territory.
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In response, Blinken said that any type of weapons he asks for Kiev, analyzed by Washington.
“When it comes to how Ukrainians use these systems, the decisions about targeting remain theirs.” Not behind us. And they must draw conclusions about what can be most effective in working to restore full sovereignty and territorial integrity, — Blinken emphasized.
He recalled that the United States does not encourage or allow the use of its weapons systems outside the territory of Ukraine.
– But again, in essence, these are decisions Ukraine. And the only reason why we are talking about these decisions is Russian aggression against Ukraine, — added the Secretary of State.
Blinken clarified that the transfer of any types of weapons, in particular ATACMS, requires comprehensive solutions. After all, the Ukrainian military “must be able to use them effectively.”
– Sometimes with new complex systems this requires exercises, and, of course, we are doing this. They also need to be able to maintain them, and this does not happen automatically. In addition, the new systems must fit into a holistic military program that should help Ukraine achieve its goal, — Blinken said.
Western media recently reported that the United States is considering the possibility of providing Ukraine with a limited number of ATACMS missiles.
