In a recent development, Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuania's Foreign Minister, has expressed support for Ukraine's unrestricted use of Western-provided weapons. This statement comes as the United States announces a substantial military aid package for Ukraine, amidst ongoing discussions about the country's potential NATO membership.
On September 26, 2024, Landsbergis emphasized the importance of allowing Ukraine to freely utilize the arms it has received. He stated, "The strategic goal that puts Ukraine in the strongest possible position requires to allow them to use the weaponry freely." This perspective underscores the complex dynamics of international support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
The same day, US President Joe Biden announced over $8 billion in military assistance for Ukraine. This package includes the Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW), a precision-guided glide bomb with a range of up to 81 miles (130 km). The JSOW, developed by Raytheon for the US Navy, represents a significant enhancement to Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities.
Landsbergis expressed hope that Ukraine would be permitted to use these new weapons to strike deeper into Russian territory. However, this stance contrasts with the US position, as a US official indicated that Biden would not authorize the use of US missiles for targets deep within Russia.
The debate over Ukraine's weaponry usage occurs against the backdrop of its aspirations for NATO membership. Landsbergis strongly supports Ukraine's inclusion in NATO's common defense area, stating, "It has to happen." This sentiment aligns with Ukraine's long-standing goal, as reiterated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his visit to Washington on the same day.
It's worth noting that Lithuania, along with other Baltic states, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine since the onset of the Russo-Ukrainian War in 2014. Lithuania itself joined NATO in 2004, the same year it became a member of the European Union. The NATO-Ukraine Commission, established in 1997, has been a platform for consultations on security issues between the alliance and Ukraine.
The ongoing conflict has led to significant international support for Ukraine. Since the full-scale Russian invasion began on February 24, 2022, the US alone has provided over $75 billion in total aid to Ukraine. This includes military assistance coordinated through the US European Command.
Russia has warned that allowing Ukraine to strike Russian territory with Western-supplied long-range missiles would deepen what it perceives as direct US and European involvement in the conflict. This stance reflects the tensions that have persisted since the suspension of the NATO-Russia Council in 2014 following the annexation of Crimea.
As the situation evolves, the international community continues to grapple with balancing support for Ukraine's defense capabilities and the risk of escalating the conflict. The debate over Ukraine's potential NATO membership and the extent of its military capabilities remains a critical aspect of ongoing diplomatic and strategic discussions.
"The strategic goal that puts Ukraine in the strongest possible position requires to allow them to use the weaponry freely."
This complex situation underscores the intricate web of international relations, military strategy, and diplomatic efforts surrounding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As discussions continue, the world watches closely to see how these decisions will shape the future of European security and international alliances.