EU countries start to lift restrictions for Ukraine on strikes on Russian territory - Borrell

Photo: Josep Borrell, Head of EU Diplomacy (Getty Images)

The European Union countries have started allowing Ukraine to strike Russian territory. This issue is still under discussion, according to the Head of EU Diplomacy Josep Borrell.

"Do we allow our arms to be used, further, in Russian territory? Well, some Member States have started deciding that – taking this constraint out. Another important thing to discuss today," Borrell said before the meeting of EU defense ministers.

He added that "according to the law of war, there is no contradiction" in Ukraine's strikes on Russian territory. However, at the same time, some states will fear the risk of escalation.

"You have to balance the risk of escalation and the need for Ukrainians to defend themselves. Certainly, you cannot go where the attacks are coming from. You are in a completely asymmetric situation," Borrell said.

Strikes by Ukraine on Russian territory

Western countries initially prohibited Ukraine from using their weapons to strike Russian territory. This issue became more pressing after Ukrainian defenders began receiving long-range missiles with a range of up to 300 kilometers.

Currently, several countries have announced that they have allowed the use of their weapons for strikes against Russia. In particular, this statement was made by British Foreign Secretary David Cameron.