The recent conflict between Ukraine and Russia has once again brought the issue of international intervention to the forefront. As tensions continue to rise, the question of whether or not the United States should provide Ukraine with long-range weapons has become a hotly debated topic. However, according to former US special representative for Ukraine negotiations Kurt Volker, the Biden administration should not prohibit Ukraine from using long-range weapons against the aggressor country of Russia. In an interview with Russian media outlet «Meduza» on November 28th, Volker stated that it is within Ukraine’s right to defend itself against Russian aggression.
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and began supporting separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine. Despite multiple attempts at peace negotiations, the situation remains tense and volatile. In recent months, there has been an increase in ceasefire violations and reports of Russian military buildup along the border. As a result, Ukraine has been seeking support from its Western allies, including the United States.
One of the ways in which the US could support Ukraine is by providing them with long-range weapons. These weapons would allow Ukraine to strike back at Russian forces from a distance, potentially deterring further aggression. However, the Biden administration has been hesitant to provide such weapons, fearing that it could escalate the conflict and lead to a larger confrontation with Russia.
But according to Volker, this fear is unfounded. In his interview with «Meduza,» he stated that the US should not prohibit Ukraine from using long-range weapons, as it is within their right to defend themselves. He also emphasized that these weapons would not be used for offensive purposes, but rather as a deterrent against Russian aggression.
Furthermore, Volker argued that providing Ukraine with long-range weapons would not escalate the conflict, but rather help to de-escalate it. He pointed out that Russia has already been using long-range weapons against Ukraine, and by providing Ukraine with the same capabilities, it would level the playing field and potentially lead to a more balanced negotiation process.
Moreover, Volker stressed the importance of supporting Ukraine in their fight against Russian aggression. He stated that the US has a moral obligation to stand with Ukraine, as they are a democratic country fighting against an authoritarian regime. By providing them with long-range weapons, the US would be sending a strong message of support to Ukraine and standing up against Russian aggression.
It is also worth noting that providing Ukraine with long-range weapons does not necessarily mean that the US would be getting directly involved in the conflict. As Volker pointed out, the US could provide these weapons through a third party, such as NATO, to avoid any direct confrontation with Russia.
In addition, the US has a strategic interest in supporting Ukraine. As Volker stated, a strong and stable Ukraine is in the best interest of the US and its allies. By helping Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression, the US would be promoting stability and security in the region.
Some may argue that providing Ukraine with long-range weapons could lead to a dangerous arms race between Ukraine and Russia. However, Volker believes that this is not a valid concern. He stated that Ukraine has no interest in starting an arms race, but rather just wants to defend itself against Russian aggression. In fact, providing Ukraine with these weapons could potentially lead to a more stable and peaceful resolution to the conflict.
In conclusion, the Biden administration should not prohibit Ukraine from using long-range weapons against Russia. As Kurt Volker stated, it is within Ukraine’s right to defend itself, and providing them with these weapons would not escalate the conflict but rather help to de-escalate it. Moreover, it is in the strategic interest of the US to support Ukraine in their fight against Russian aggression. By standing with Ukraine and providing them with the necessary means to defend themselves, the US would be promoting stability and security in the region. It is time for the US to take a firm stance against Russian aggression and support its democratic ally in their fight for sovereignty.
