Borrell: EU ministers to discuss lifting restrictions on arms use targeting Russia

The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, has announced that on November 18 and 19, EU foreign and defence ministers will consider lifting restrictions on the use of European weaponry against Russia. 

However, Borrell cautioned that he could not guarantee the outcome of the talks, Caliber.Az reports referring to foreign media.

“There will be a discussion on this matter, and I hope all the ministers will reach an agreement. However, if not, each country will act as it sees fit,” Borrell stated, commenting on media reports indicating that the US had authorised strikes with its weaponry deep within Russian territory.

He also underscored his personal support for such strikes involving European weapons.

Meanwhile, US President Biden has, for the first time, authorised Ukraine to utilise powerful American long-range weaponry for strikes within Russia.

The weapons in question, known as the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), have a range of approximately 190 miles. This development would allow Ukrainian forces to target Russian weapon depots, logistical hubs, and airbases, potentially disrupting Russian advances on the battlefield and thwarting attacks on Ukrainian cities.

The US official, who requested anonymity as they were not authorised to discuss the matter publicly, stated that the approval includes strikes in and around the Kursk region. This area has reportedly seen the recent deployment of approximately 10,000 North Korean troops, according to US and allied sources. The move marks a notable shift in US policy, as the Biden administration had previously resisted such authorisations, concerned that permitting strikes within Russian territory might escalate the conflict.

Earlier this year, the US confirmed it had supplied Ukraine with ATACMS, with the stipulation that they be used solely within Ukrainian borders.

According to the US official, British officials are expected to follow suit, authorising the use of their Storm Shadow long-range missiles for operations within Russia. These missiles, which have a range of around 155 miles, require US consent due to the presence of American components.

It remains uncertain how many ATACMS Ukraine possesses, as some have already been deployed for strikes within Ukrainian territory. Nonetheless, their availability is believed to be limited.

By Aghakazim Guliyev