EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called on countries to consider Ukraine’s right to defend itself while balancing the risk of escalation.

Borrell stated that under the law of war, Ukraine has the right to use Western-supplied arms to strike in Russia if necessary.

His remarks came at a meeting with European Union defense ministers in Brussels.

While Ukraine has been pushing for permission to target Russian territory with longer-range weaponry provided by its allies, key backers like the United States and Germany have been cautious due to concerns about escalating the conflict.

Borrell’s call was supported by several defense ministers at the gathering. Dutch minister Kajsa Ollongren highlighted that the Netherlands has no restrictions and hopes other countries will follow suit.

Estonia’s Hanno Pevkur emphasized the need for Ukraine to have the ability to strike back against Russian aggression, Moscow Times reported.

These discussions follow NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg’s recent statement urging allies to reconsider their restrictions, especially in light of Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian cities.

Meanwhile, NATO countries are facing challenges in providing Ukraine with the air defense systems it urgently needs.

Ollongren mentioned that the Netherlands is working on an initiative to assemble a Patriot air defense system to send to Ukraine in cooperation with partners.

Written by B.C. Begley