Anthony Blinken/Illustration photo
Ukraine should receive assistance in defending itself against Russian aggression, but strikes by Ukrainian drones, especially targeting Russian oil refineries, are scarcely justifiable.
US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken made this statement during a joint press conference with French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne in Paris.
«Our stance from the outset has been to support Ukraine in defending itself against Russian aggression. However, we do not endorse or encourage Ukrainian strikes beyond its territory», — Blinken stated, as quoted by Ukrinform.
His French counterpart Sejourne echoed his country’s position:
«We view Russia as the aggressor, and under these circumstances, we have little else to add… I believe I’ve made myself clear».
Before meeting with Sejourne, the US Secretary of State, along with French Minister of Armed Forces Sebastian Lecorne, visited the plant that manufactures Caesar artillery guns for Ukraine.
Anthony Blinken also emphasized that Ukraine should be provided with everything it requires to defend itself, given that the war has reached a critical juncture.
Previously, the Financial Times reported, citing three unnamed sources, that the United States purportedly urged Ukraine to cease striking Russian oil refineries. Americans are concerned that such actions could lead to a rise in global oil prices and prompt retaliatory measures from Russia.