President Biden of the United States and UK Prime Minister Starmer reached certain consensus during their meeting at the White House, but have yet to decide on allowing Ukraine to use long-range weapons against Russian territory.
“We need to discuss this issue now,” Biden told reporters at the White House on Friday, September 13, as the two were about to meet.
“The next few weeks and months could be crucial – we must pay close attention to supporting Ukraine in its crucial fight for freedom,” Starmer said.
Earlier this week, Biden hinted that the U.S. might consider lifting the ban on Ukraine using long-range weapons to counter Russia.
Russian President Putin subsequently warned Western countries that allowing Ukraine to launch long-range missile attacks on Russia would be tantamount to war with NATO.
According to the Kremlin’s official channel on Telegram, Putin stated, “This would largely change the nature of the conflict.” “It means that NATO countries, the United States, and European countries are at war with Russia.”
White House National Security Spokesperson John Kirby said on Friday before the meeting between Biden and Starmer, “Our view on providing Ukraine with the capability to conduct long-range strikes within Russian territory has not changed.”
“Since we previously stated our lack of support for such capability, our policy on this capability remains unchanged.”
Ukrainian President Zelensky has repeatedly urged Western allies to authorize the use of long-range weapons against Russia, believing it to be the only way to protect Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure from merciless bombing and end the war. Following Starmer’s visit, no new commitments were made regarding Ukraine.
In a statement, the White House said, “The two leaders had an in-depth discussion on a range of diplomatic issues of mutual concern, and reaffirmed their steadfast support for Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression.”
Additionally, the two leaders expressed “deep concerns” over ongoing missile tests by North Korea, as well as the behavior of China and Iran in supplying weapons to Russia.
Earlier this week, North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles into the East Sea following leader Kim Jong Un’s call to expand the nuclear arsenal.
The U.S. and UK leaders also reiterated their firm commitment to Israel’s security, emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire agreement to release hostages and expand relief efforts in Gaza. The White House statement also mentioned that Biden and Starmer jointly criticized the attacks on Red Sea commercial shipping by Houthi militants supported by Iran.
They also discussed cooperation between the U.S. and UK in clean energy, advanced technology, AUKUS, and opportunities to deepen the strong economic relationship between the two countries. President Biden emphasized his support for the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement and its role in maintaining peace and stability in Northern Ireland.
(This article referenced reports from United Press International)