EU urges Ukraine to strike strategic Russian targets

The European Parliament has taken a significant step by adopting a non-binding resolution that urges EU member states to permit Ukraine to target strategic military sites within Russia. This resolution, passed with a vote of 425 in favor, 131 against, and 63 abstentions, emphasizes the need for Ukraine to utilize long-range missiles against legitimate military targets in Russia. Lawmakers argue that restricting Ukraine's military capabilities undermines its efforts to defend its cities and infrastructure amidst ongoing conflict. The resolution also calls for an immediate lifting of restrictions on Western weapon systems supplied to Ukraine, highlighting the urgency of the situation. While some countries, like Germany, have hesitated to provide certain missile systems, others, including France and Italy, have already sent their Scalp missiles. Additionally, the United States is reportedly negotiating with the United Kingdom to allow the use of Storm Shadow missiles in the conflict. Furthermore, the resolution advocates for increased financial support and humanitarian aid for Ukraine, as well as enhanced protection of its airspace. The authors of the resolution, including German Green MEP Sergey Lagodinsky, assert that international law supports Ukraine's right to defend itself using Western weaponry against Russian military targets. This development reflects a growing consensus among European lawmakers regarding the need to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities in the face of ongoing aggression, signaling a potential shift in the EU's approach to the conflict and its support for Ukraine's sovereignty.