The EU will not decide whether weapons supplied to Ukraine are used to strike targets in Russia, that judgment remains in the hands of individual countries. This was stated by the EU High Representative for Foreign Policy and Security, Josep Borrell, at a press conference after today's meeting of European defense ministers in Brussels, BTA reports.
We discussed the use of Western weapons against Russian targets, as provided for by international law, when proportionate, he said. Each EU country must make this decision and take responsibility for itself, said the High Representative.
He noted that countries that were initially opposed have changed their minds. No one can force the EU countries to make such a decision, no one will decide this at the EU level, Borel explained.
It is understandable that the Ukrainians want to strike targets in Russia. I understand the concern about deepening the war. Some EU countries strongly oppose, others definitely support Kiev's request. I can't say who will be the majority, people are changing their minds and some who abstained now support this approach. No country in the EU should have to worry about being forced to do something it doesn't want to do, the High Representative concluded.
He expressed hope that the decision to provide the funds from the profits on the seized Russian property in the EU will not encounter obstacles. According to him, Kiev can expect about three billion euros a year from these funds, with 90 percent of the sums expected to be directed to ensure defense capabilities.