Former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has called on Western nations to lift restrictions on Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles against targets in Russia. Speaking on Poland’s TVP World, he emphasized the urgent need for Ukraine to strike Russian military sites, particularly after reports of Iran supplying missiles and drones, along with North Korean soldiers joining Russian forces on the frontlines in Ukraine.
Ukraine’s Right to Self-Defense
According to the European Solidarity website, Poroshenko asserted that Ukraine has a legitimate right to defend itself by targeting Russian military facilities involved in attacks on Ukrainian civilians and soldiers. He stated, “We are still awaiting crucial decisions from the United States and Germany to authorize Ukrainian forces to deploy long-range missiles on Russian soil against lawful military targets.”
The Need for Modern Weaponry
Poroshenko specifically highlighted the German Taurus missiles as highly effective and modern. He questioned why Ukraine cannot utilize these missiles to target verified threats within Russia: “We now have intelligence on North Korean artillery shells and Iranian missiles, but without access to long-range weapons, we cannot neutralize these threats immediately.”
A Shared Global Interest
He urged Western allies to recognize their shared interest in Ukraine’s victory, stating, “This is a common battle, and Ukraine’s success aligns with the Free World’s interests. Russia’s reliance on North Korean artillery and Iranian drones underscores the global stakes in this conflict, and we rely on our partners’ support.”
The Importance of NATO Membership
Poroshenko also emphasized the importance of Ukraine joining NATO to establish a stable security landscape in Europe. He warned that without NATO membership, a lasting peace in Europe is unlikely.
A Message to Western Leaders
Concluding his address, Poroshenko delivered a strong message to Western leaders: “We must not compromise on Ukraine’s sovereignty or territorial integrity. Sanctions on Russia must remain, and Putin’s influence must be weakened to ensure NATO’s doors stay open to Ukraine.”
