France and Germany support Ukraine's use of weapons against Russian targets

France and Germany said on Tuesday that Ukraine should be allowed to use their weapons against targets inside Russia when Moscow attacks Ukraine. They believe Ukraine should be able to defend itself by neutralizing military sites from which missiles are fired and those that attack Ukraine. France has provided Ukraine with SCALP cruise missiles and other military weaponry to be used only against targets launching attacks into Ukraine, not against civilian or other military targets in Russia. Germany also supports Ukraine's right to defend itself as long as it follows the conditions set by the countries supplying the weapons and international law. Belgium has pledged to supply Ukraine with 30 F-16 fighter jets over the next four years, showing support for Ukraine's defense. This agreement includes at least $1.06 billion in military aid this year, with a long-term commitment to support Ukraine over the next 10 years. However, there are differences in opinions within NATO regarding allowing Ukraine to strike deep into Russia with Western weapons. While some support this idea, others, like the US, do not encourage or enable the use of US-supplied weapons to strike inside Russia. The Czech-led initiative will soon deliver 155mm artillery shells to Ukraine, showing solidarity with Ukraine's defense against Russian attacks. Despite having the resources and funds to support Ukraine, there are delays in implementing aid decisions due to differing opinions among EU member states. The situation in Ukraine remains tense, with reports of civilian casualties and damages caused by Russian attacks in eastern Ukrainian cities. The G7 leaders' summit is seen as an opportunity to strengthen Ukraine's defense by considering measures like monetizing frozen Russian assets to provide support.