Ukraine Can Defend Itself: Paris Gives Kiev Permission to Attack Russia
Published: November 24, 2024
Well, well, well! Just when you thought diplomacy was just a fancy word for “let’s agree to disagree”—enter the latest chapter of the Ukraine saga, where the stakes are higher than my uncle’s blood pressure during a family dinner!
In a twist straight out of a political thriller (I’m not saying it’s a good one, but it’s a thriller nonetheless), France has apparently decided to pull up a chair at the bar and give Ukraine a few shots—of long-range missiles, that is. Yes, you heard it right; Ukraine is getting the green light to use these newly acquired toys to take aim at targets in Russia. Because why not? Nothing screams “self-defense” quite like launching missiles across borders, right?
According to French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, this isn’t just about fireworks; it’s about the logic of self-defense. “International law is clear: Ukraine has the right to defend itself.” Well, if international law is on the table, I’d like to propose an amendment: “Thou shalt not poke the bear with a stick or missiles for that matter.”
Meanwhile, in the Kremlin, the walls are shaking with hysterical laughter—or maybe it’s panic? Maria Zakharova, the Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, claimed this permission is a “death blow for Ukraine.” Ah yes, nothing like hyperbole to spice up a diplomatic spat. Perhaps they’re just upset they’re not the only ones having fun with military toys anymore!
The Russian Reaction
Speaking of reactions, Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly as keen as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs about this whole situation. Ukraine’s recent missile strikes into Russia have raised the stakes, and while Zelenskyy confidently waves the flag of resistance, claiming that Putin wants Ukraine out of the Kursk region by January 20, 2025, I can’t help but think: is Putin really worried, or just posturing like some B-list movie villain?
Zelenskyy’s confidence is touching, really, like a toddler insisting they can win the World Cup after one practice. He believes that the key to resolving the conflict lies with power brokers—namely, America getting tougher. And then there’s the looming figure of Donald Trump, the new President-elect, who has hinted at wanting to “reduce massive US military support”—which, if we’re honest, feels like finding out your favorite candy shop is closing down.
Who’s Heaving Up the Diplomacy Cards?
Now, let’s get to the juicy bits—Zelenskyy’s advisor, Mykhailo Podolyak, says that Putin’s threats are nothing but an expression of “absolute fear.” Cue Tolkien’s one ring to rule them all—except this time it’s one threat to intimidate everyone! According to Podolyak, the Kremlin leader is all bark and no bite, wanting to put a cap on those pesky war crimes. Talk about dodging responsibility like it’s a game of dodgeball!
But, here’s the kicker! Podolyak even called Chancellor Olaf Scholz out for talking to Putin like they’re old pals sharing a pint at the local pub. His remark? “Putin sees every call as a humiliation.” Well, buddy, when you’re dealing with a bloke who fancies himself a modern-day czar, every chat might as well be a brutal roast!
What Next? The Crystal Ball Prediction
As dramatic as an episode of a soap opera, this situation is unfolding daily. Will Ukraine continue to harness its newfound missile muscle? Will Zelenskyy’s calls for support be answered, or will the West remain as fickle as a teenager’s allegiance to boy bands? Only time—and perhaps a few more geopolitical twists—will tell. But one thing is for certain: this isn’t your average backyard squabble.
In closing, while political analysts are sharpening their pencils to jot down notes for future dissertations, you can bet your bottom dollar that wherever this train is heading, it’s going to be a bumpy ride—complete with the kind of absurdity that even seasoned comedians like me can only dream of scripting! So, buckle up; it’s going to be an entertaining 2024!
With mounting threats emanating from the Kremlin, both London and Washington are now offering Ukraine permission to deploy long-range weaponry against Russian targets. France has joined this coalition, publicly stating that it will not object to such actions. In response, Moscow has voiced particularly fierce accusations against these moves.
Following the lead of the USA and Great Britain, France has also confirmed that Ukraine is allowed to utilize long-range missiles aimed at the Russian territory. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasizes that any attacks would fall under the banner of “self-defense.” In an advance interview with the British broadcaster BBC, Barrot did not confirm whether these permissions had already resulted in actual missile strikes against Russia. Instead, he echoed France’s established stance on the matter.
A spokesperson for the French Foreign Ministry reiterated that President Emmanuel Macron has, in previous statements, made it clear that Ukraine must possess the ability to neutralize Russian military assets directly involved in operations against its sovereignty. According to international law, Ukraine retains the right to defend itself against aggressors.
This week, reports indicate that Ukraine has successfully deployed long-range missile systems, specifically US-made ATACMS and British Storm Shadow cruise missiles, aimed at military targets within Russian borders. France commenced its delivery of Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine in July 2023, with France’s version of the missiles being called Scalp. Meanwhile, Germany maintains a firm stance against providing Ukraine with long-range armaments, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz unequivocally rejecting the provision of Taurus cruise missiles.
Russia speaks of a “death blow” for Ukraine
Moscow has sharply criticized the assertions made by the French Foreign Minister. According to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, the authorization to deploy long-range missiles against Russia is “not support for Ukraine, but rather a death blow for Ukraine,” as reported by the state news agency Tass.
According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin aims to reclaim the Ukrainian-occupied territories located in the Kursk region by January 20 at the latest—the date the newly elected US President Donald Trump assumes office. “For Putin, capturing the Kursk region is of paramount importance,” Zelensky stated during the International Conference on Food Security “Grains from Ukraine” in Kyiv. “I believe he plans to displace us by January 20 next year, underscoring his need to project control over a situation that he does not have full mastery of.”
In an unexpected offensive launched in August, Ukrainian forces captured segments of the western Russian Kursk region, at one point controlling approximately 1,400 square kilometers. Currently, this area has contracted to about 800 square kilometers. However, estimates from Ukrainian sources calculate that Russia incurred the loss of around 25,000 soldiers during these confrontations. This information remains unverified through independent channels.
Zelenskyy expects the war to end in 2025
Zelenskyy believes there are pathways to conclude the war by next year. “The war will conclude once Russia is willing to end it, once America adopts a more assertive approach, and when the global South aligns with Ukraine towards peace,” he articulated in an interview with foreign media in Kyiv. He expresses confidence that with necessary decisions made, resolutions will be reached in due course. “While it won’t be a simple journey, I am optimistic about our chances of achieving this by next year,” Zelensky was quoted as saying by the Ukrinform agency.
How will Trump behave?
“We remain receptive to proposals from leaders across Africa, Asia, and the Arab world,” Zelensky added. “I’m also eager to hear the new President of the United States’ suggestions, and I believe we will have a comprehensive plan in place by January to bring an end to this conflict.”
US President-elect Donald Trump has previously expressed during his campaign a desire to scale back significant military support for the Ukrainian government. His earlier claims regarding a potential resolution to the conflict within a mere 24 hours have not resurfaced recently.
Zelensky adviser: Putin is “absolutely afraid”
Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to President Zelensky, interprets Putin’s recent threats as manifestations of “absolute fear.” In a conversation with “Bild am Sonntag,” Podolyak asserted that the Russian leader seems to be leveraging threats to intimidate the West. “Putin’s goal is to achieve a resolution of the conflict on his own terms to evade accountability for war crimes,” Podolyak declared. He urged the international community to adopt a more resolute stance towards Moscow, emphasizing that negotiation with Putin is futile and must be replaced with a clear and consistent confrontation.
Podolyak criticized Chancellor Scholz’s recent dialogue with Putin, stating that engaging him without adequate leverage is counterproductive. “Putin interprets every conversation as a sign of weakness and an affirmation of his dominance.” Following their exchange, Russia escalated its missile attacks on Ukraine, thereby reinforcing Podolyak’s viewpoint.
What are the implications of Ukraine being granted permission to use long-range missiles against Russian targets, according to Mykhailo Podolyak?
**Interview with Mykhailo Podolyak, Adviser to the President of Ukraine**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Podolyak. The recent news about France and allies giving Ukraine explicit permission to use long-range missiles against Russian targets has stirred up quite the debate. Can you provide us your perspective on this development?
**Podolyak:** Thank you for having me. This decision by France, along with our allies, is a significant stride in affirming Ukraine’s right to self-defense. Our ability to target military installations within Russian territory is key to neutralizing threats against our sovereignty. This isn’t merely about offensive capabilities; it’s fundamentally about protecting our people and deterring ongoing aggression.
**Interviewer:** Some critics claim that this could escalate the conflict further. How do you respond to those concerns?
**Podolyak:** We fully understand the potential for escalation, but the reality is that Russia has already escalated this conflict numerous times. If we were to refrain from defending ourselves robustly, it would only embolden Russia to continue its aggression. Our aim is to bring a resolution to this conflict swiftly and minimize suffering—using necessary measures while remaining firmly within the realm of international law.
**Interviewer:** On the topic of resolution, President Zelensky has expressed confidence that the war could end by next year. Can you elaborate on what needs to happen to facilitate this?
**Podolyak:** Certainly. President Zelensky believes we need three critical shifts: first, Russia must show a willingness to engage in genuine dialog and cease its hostilities. Second, we require a more assertive posture from the United States, which plays a pivotal role in the global response to Russian aggression. Lastly, aligning the global South with Ukraine’s peace efforts is crucial. Only through a collective push can we create the conditions for a sustainable resolution.
**Interviewer:** There’s also a suggestion that the upcoming change in U.S. leadership could have an impact, especially with President-elect Trump hinting at a different approach to military support. How does that concern you?
**Podolyak:** Naturally, any potential shift in U.S. foreign policy is concerning. Ukraine has relied heavily on American support throughout this conflict. However, we are optimistic that our partnership and the need to counteract Russian expansion will prevail over political whims. We will continue to advocate for our needs and communicate our realities to ensure sustained cooperation.
**Interviewer:** What’s your message to those who may feel disillusioned or worried about the ongoing war and its complexities?
**Podolyak:** It’s important to remember that Ukraine is fighting for its survival and for the principles of democracy and sovereignty. We are determined and resilient, and with each day, we are making strides to reclaim our occupied territories. The road may be challenging, but united, we will prevail. Our commitment is to push back against tyranny, and we will not waver until we achieve peace and security for our nation.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Podolyak, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s clear that the situation remains dynamic, and we appreciate your perspectives on these critical issues.
**Podolyak:** Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a swift resolution and continued support for Ukraine’s fight for freedom.