US and UK Diplomats Make Joint Visit to Kyiv Amid Ukraine's Missile Requests

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy visited Kyiv to discuss Ukraine's request for long-range missiles. This visit occurs amidst increased Russian airstrikes and highlights the ongoing international dynamics of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, including allegations of Iranian support to Russia.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy arrived in Kyiv on Wednesday for a joint visit, as Ukraine continues to urge Western nations to approve its use of long-range missiles against Russia.

The high-level diplomats reached the Ukrainian capital by train, shortly after a US presidential debate in which Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Trump discussed the prolonged Ukraine conflict.

Blinken's journey follows his stop in London, where he accused Iran of supplying Russia with Fath-360 short-range ballistic missiles, labeling it a “dramatic escalation” in the conflict.

For months, Ukraine has been seeking permission from the US and its Western allies to use long-range weapons to strike targets in Russia. The pressure is set to increase following Russia's latest reported acquisition of additional weaponry.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal emphasized the need for such weapons, stating at a Kyiv news conference, “If we are allowed to destroy military targets prepared by the enemy for attacks on Ukraine, it would bring more safety for our civilians, our people, and our children.” He also condemned Russia's use of Iranian weapons, calling it a terrorist act that demands an equal response to ensure citizen safety.

The visit precedes British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's upcoming trip to Washington to meet President Joe Biden at the White House on Friday. Meanwhile, Russian airstrikes, primarily targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, have escalated with increased missile and drone attacks in recent weeks.

(With inputs from agencies.)