Sweden has permitted Ukraine to use its donated military weapons to strike deep into Russia. Kyiv has long called for greater freedom to hit targets in Russia. Some countries have granted the request, but important backers like the US are hesitant due to fear of escalation.
In an interview, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson stated that Ukraine has the right to defend itself by all means. Sweden supports Ukraine’s right to defend itself as long as military actions comply with the laws of war.
Sweden has sent 37 billion Swedish kronor ($3.5 billion) in military aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022, making it the ninth biggest donor. The Swedish government announced 75 billion Swedish kronor ($7 billion) of military support for Ukraine over the next three years.
NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg urged members to ease prohibitions on using weapons supplied to Ukraine. Italy and Germany remained firm on their decisions not to allow weapons to be used for strikes on Russia’s territory. Italy stated it is not at war with anyone, while Germany fears broader weapon use could escalate the conflict into a major war.