EU countries begin lifting bans on Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory

In a statement, Borrell said, “Are we allowing the use of weapons on Russian territory? Member states have started to address this, lifting such restrictions.”

He added that, “according to the laws of war, there are no contradictions” in Ukraine striking the territory of the aggressor, Russia. However, he noted that some of Kyiv’s partners still fear it could escalate the conflict and make them co-belligerents.

“But you must find a balance between the risk of escalation and the necessity for Ukrainians to defend themselves,” said Borrell.

“Because, of course, [currently] you cannot fire at where the attacks are coming from, you are in a completely asymmetric situation.”

On May 17, White House National Security spokesman John Kirby reiterated that the United States does not “encourage” Ukraine to strike Russian territory using U.S. weapons. The Pentagon further explained that foreign weapons should be used to reclaim Ukrainian sovereign territory and that this must occur “specifically on Ukrainian territory.”