Ukrainian PM Discusses Long-Range Missiles with Biden

In a critical meeting in Washington, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and President Joe Biden engaged in extensive discussions about military support amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Shmyhal highlighted the necessity of Ukraine being permitted to use Western long-range missiles against Russia, asserting that this capability is essential for ending the war. Although the conversation remained broad, with a focus on strategy, uncertainty persisted regarding the authorization of missile strikes across the border. Shmyhal emphasized that the central reason behind these discussions is to respond to Russia's illegal invasion, stating that Ukraine has a right to self-defense. While the UK is advocating for this request among allies, Biden remains cautious about the potential repercussions of such action. The dialogues also included concerns about other geopolitical threats, particularly regarding Iran and North Korea's support for Russia. The outcome of these discussions, particularly on missile capabilities, is significant as Ukraine faces a landscape where its military needs are pressing, and the consequences of inaction loom large. As both leaders navigate this complex geopolitical landscape, the urgency for effective support looms over their deliberations.