Kyiv, Sep 12 (V7N)- US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and British Foreign Minister David Lammy met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv on Wednesday, pledging further military support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing war with Russia. During the meeting, which focused on Ukraine's military strategy and long-term goals, the two Western officials announced a combined financial aid package exceeding $770 million.

Secretary Blinken revealed that the United States would provide an additional $700 million in military support, while Minister Lammy confirmed the UK’s commitment to offering £60 million (approximately $78 million) in aid. This meeting underscored the continued backing of Ukraine by the West but also highlighted ongoing challenges in securing key capabilities for the Ukrainian military.

One of the key points discussed was Ukraine's request for permission to launch long-range strikes inside Russia using Western-provided weapons, including US-made ATACMS and British Storm Shadow missiles. While Zelensky has argued that such strikes would reduce Moscow’s ability to wage war, the US and UK have so far imposed restrictions limiting Ukraine’s use of these long-range weapons to defending its own territory.

While there has been no immediate progress on allowing Ukraine to conduct such strikes, Blinken emphasised that a range of issues was addressed in the discussions. "A lot of things were discussed besides long-range ammunition," Blinken told reporters. He also confirmed that he would brief the US President upon his return to Washington.

At a press conference following the meeting, British Foreign Minister Lammy noted that the discussions could continue over the coming weeks, stating, "Various issues were discussed. Issues such as the military equipment Ukraine needs to win the war have also been reviewed." However, this stance left Ukrainian officials, who were hoping for more immediate results, somewhat disappointed.

President Zelensky remained optimistic but acknowledged the challenge of obtaining quick approvals from allies. He suggested that permission for long-range strikes would depend on the “positive mindset” of Ukraine’s Western allies. "At least we can expect some firm decisions, and we need them now," he said.

In a post on Telegram, Zelensky described the meeting as "detailed and meaningful," noting that critical issues, including war strategy and the supply of long-range weapons, were discussed. He stressed that the most important outcome was that Ukraine's arguments had been carefully listened to by its allies.

The meeting marks another chapter in the ongoing support for Ukraine, which continues to seek advanced military capabilities from its allies in order to shift the balance in the ongoing conflict with Russia.

END/AJ/SMA