Zelenskyy urges US to consider long-range weapons as EU summit focuses on sanctions against Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on the United States to remain open to supplying Kyiv with long-range weapons to strengthen its military campaign against Russia. Speaking from the Pokrovsk region in eastern Ukraine during a European Union summit, Zelenskyy also pressed for heightened Western sanctions targeting Russia’s gas and nuclear sectors and reiterated his ambition for Ukraine to join the EU before 2030.
The appeal comes amid U.S. hesitancy over a potential deal to provide Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles, capable of striking up to 2,500 kilometers into Russian territory, including Moscow. On Sunday, President Donald Trump indicated he is not currently considering the transfer of these long-range missiles, either directly or via NATO allies, citing concerns about escalating the conflict.
“No, not really,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Washington from Palm Beach, Florida, when asked about the missile deal. He added, however, that his position could change.
Earlier discussions about the Tomahawk proposal took place on October 22 at the White House between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Rutte noted that the matter is still under review and emphasized that the final decision rests with the United States.
The Kremlin has warned against any provision of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, underscoring the heightened international tensions surrounding the conflict. Zelenskyy’s push for long-range weapons reflects Ukraine’s continued efforts to secure stronger military support from the West as the war with Russia continues.
