Ukrainian President Zelenskiy has called on the US and UK to make “strong decisions” as he seeks permission to use long-range missiles in Russia. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy are in Kyiv for talks with Ukrainian leaders. Zelenskiy hopes to present a “victory plan” to President Biden that would strengthen Ukraine and potentially end the war with Russia.
Recent events include three civilians being killed in Russian attacks on Kostiantynivka in eastern Ukraine. Russia’s deputy foreign minister has threatened to destroy any new deliveries of long-range missiles to Ukraine. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi denied claims that Iran supplied ballistic missiles to Russia.
David Lammy pledged more than £600 million in support for Ukraine, including air defense missiles, artillery ammunition, and armored vehicles. Macron expressed France’s support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Russia announced it may limit exports of uranium, titanium, and nickel in response to Western actions.
The UK government called for Russia to re-engage with the OSCE and end the war in Ukraine. Russian forces conducted naval exercises over the Barents and Norwegian seas, while Maria Zakharova suggested that Russia and China could combine their potential in the face of aggression. Lammy emphasized the need to stand up to Putin’s imperialism for collective security. Ukrainian Prime Minister Shmyhal thanked the UK for military aid and energy support. Lithuania’s president opened a defense industry forum in Kyiv to support Ukraine’s military efforts.
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Photo credit www.theguardian.com
