The Russian foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov, has accused the United States of waging a war against Russia through its massive campaign to support Ukraine with arms. Lavrov argued that the US has long been preparing Ukraine for this purpose and that the rumors about Washington possibly approving the delivery of Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to Kiev were aimed at shaping public opinion.
Speaking to Russian reporter Pavel Zarubin, Lavrov emphasized that, regardless of whether the ATACMS deliveries are approved or not, Ukraine has been groomed for years to fight against Russia. He claimed that the US is controlling the hostilities between Kiev and Moscow and accused them of sending weapons, ammunition, intelligence, and satellite data to Ukraine, effectively waging war against Russia.
Recent reports from Western media outlets suggest that the US administration, under President Joe Biden, is moving closer to approving the delivery of ATACMS missiles to Ukraine. However, the US has hesitated in granting this request, as they believe potential Ukrainian strikes deep into Russia could escalate the conflict further.
It is important to note that Ukraine has already received long-range missiles from the UK and France, which Ukrainian officials claim to have used in attacks on civilian targets and infrastructure in Russia’s Crimean Peninsula and Donbass region.
Despite not granting the request for ATACMS missiles, the US has provided significant military aid to Ukraine, totaling over $43 billion since the conflict began. This aid includes air defense systems, armored personnel carriers, and M1 Abrams tanks.
Moscow has repeatedly warned the West against supplying arms to Ukraine, arguing that such actions will only prolong the conflict without changing its ultimate outcome.
The tensions between Ukraine and Russia have remained high since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the subsequent conflict in Eastern Ukraine. The situation has been further aggravated by ongoing territorial disputes and accusations from both sides regarding aggression and support for separatist movements.
While the US and its NATO allies have expressed support for Ukraine and its territorial integrity, they have also emphasized the need for a diplomatic solution to the conflict. The delivery of advanced weaponry, such as ATACMS missiles, could potentially escalate the situation and lead to further casualties and destruction.
As the debate over the US’s involvement in Ukraine continues, it remains to be seen whether the delivery of ATACMS missiles or any other military assistance will be approved. The international community is closely watching the developments in the region, hoping for a peaceful resolution that respects the sovereignty and security of all parties involved.
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