During a visit to Kyiv, UK Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron emphasized that it is Ukraine’s prerogative to determine the use of British weapons, affirming the nation’s right to strike targets within Russian territory. He announced a commitment of £3 billion ($3.75 billion) annually from the UK for as long as deemed necessary.
Lord Cameron stated, “Just as Russia is striking inside Ukraine, you can quite understand why Ukraine feels the need to make sure it’s defending itself.” His remarks drew condemnation from Russia, labeling them as “another very dangerous statement” and potentially escalating tensions in the Ukrainian conflict.
Foreign Minister David Cameron (Credits: CNBC)
While Lord Cameron did not explicitly endorse the idea of using British weapons to strike inside Russia, his statements underscored Ukraine’s autonomy in decision-making regarding weapon deployment. Previously, the UK had implied that weapons such as the Storm Shadow missile should be utilized solely within Ukrainian territory.
The US reportedly advised Ukraine against striking oil refineries in Russia, fearing an escalation in conflict. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov criticized French President Emmanuel Macron’s suggestion of considering ground troop deployment in Ukraine in certain circumstances, labeling it as a “very dangerous trend.”
David Cameron (Credits: The Times of Isreal)
Recent advances by Russian forces in eastern Ukraine, coupled with intelligence indicating preparations for a summer offensive in Kharkiv and Sumy regions, have heightened tensions. Despite Russian claims of capturing villages, Ukrainian military officials refute these assertions, highlighting ongoing clashes.
Lord Cameron’s meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also addressed the need to repair Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, severely damaged by repeated Russian missile strikes. This appeal underscores the multifaceted challenges Ukraine faces despite the ongoing conflict.
