Zelenskyy Urges Western Allies for Rapid Authorization of Long-Range Capabilities

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on Western allies to authorize long-range shells and missiles to protect Ukraine. Emphasizing urgent need, he highlighted discussions with U.S., UK, France, and Germany, focusing on air defense to safeguard cities and energy infrastructure.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appealed to Western allies—the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany—to authorize access to long-range capabilities, including critical long-range shells and missiles. Highlighting Ukraine's urgent need, Zelenskyy stressed the importance of these weapons to protect its citizens.

In a post on X, Zelenskyy stated, "These days, a Ukrainian delegation, including the First Deputy Prime Minister, the Minister of Defense, representatives of the General Staff, and the Head of the Office of the President, is working in Washington." He emphasized that Ukraine's priority is to equip its defense forces with long-range capabilities to prevent Russian terror attacks.

Zelenskyy explained, "Meetings at various levels have addressed securing long-range capabilities for our Defense Forces. This is crucial to stopping the terror that cities like Kharkiv are enduring. Clearing Ukrainian skies of Russian guided bombs would force Russia toward ending the war and achieving a just peace."

He called upon the U.S., UK, France, and Germany to expedite these authorizations. "Delays cannot be afforded; these decisions will significantly impact the course of events," Zelenskyy said. He also indicated that Ukraine is negotiating air defense systems to safeguard cities and energy infrastructure, aiming to protect Ukrainian children in schools.

(With inputs from agencies.)