Speaking at a press conference before departing for Jordan, Duda suggested this could mark a significant turning point in the war.
The remarks coincided with the 1,000th day since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022.
"Recent days have seen a sharp escalation of Russian missile attacks on Ukraine, primarily targeting civilian infrastructure and causing the deaths of ordinary Ukrainian citizens. In this context, President Biden’s decision to permit Ukraine to strike targets in Russia using U.S.-supplied medium-range missiles is a critical change," Duda stated.
A unified Western front
Duda emphasized the broader implications of the decision, noting that France and the United Kingdom have followed suit by allowing Ukraine to deploy their missile systems as well. "This is a rapidly evolving situation. I welcome this united stance from President Biden and our allies. It sends a clear signal to Russia that Ukraine is receiving robust and decisive support from the West," he said.
The Polish president also highlighted the necessity of providing Ukraine with advanced defense capabilities to push Russian supply lines further from the front. "Especially now, as Russia enlists its allies, including North Korean troops, Ukraine needs the means to defend itself effectively," he added.
Duda described Biden’s decision as "perhaps a breakthrough moment in this war," asserting that it reinforces the West's firm and consistent position against Russian aggression. "Russia must see that Ukraine has the means and support to resist and that the West’s resolve remains steadfast," he remarked.
Strategic timing amid diplomatic movements
The timing of Biden's approval coincides with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s first phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin in two years. Duda interpreted the U.S. stance as a clear indication that Washington remains resolute in its support for Ukraine. "This demonstrates that the United States is not swayed by diplomatic overtures and continues to stand firmly with Ukraine," he said.
Duda concluded by lauding the collaborative approach taken by Western allies, noting that their combined missile contributions significantly bolster Ukraine’s defensive and offensive capabilities in a critical phase of the conflict.
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Source: PAP