“We Cannot Strike the Kremlin,” Zelenskyy Says

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy clarified that Ukraine is unable to strike targets such as the Kremlin, even if allowed by Western allies to use long-range missiles. The range of the supplied weapons does not permit such actions.

Speaking at the Ambrosetti Forum, Zelenskyy responded to concerns from international partners, including Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, regarding potential strikes on Russian territory.

“It’s unfortunate that we cannot do this. The long-range weapons you or your partners have can reach about 200 kilometers. This is less than the distances Tajani mentioned,” Zelenskyy said.

He highlighted the challenge of addressing Russia’s continued aerial bombings in eastern Ukraine, with over 4,000 bombs dropped monthly. Russian aircraft operate from airfields located 100 to 300 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, beyond the reach of current Ukrainian capabilities.

Zelenskyy reaffirmed that Ukraine’s goal is to use long-range weapons strictly against military targets: “We are not aiming at civilians.”

Earlier, UK, France, and the US have supplied Ukraine with long-range missiles as part of ongoing military support. However, these missiles come with conditions preventing strikes on Russian territory. Zelenskyy has repeatedly urged for changes to this policy, citing the need to target Russian airbases where tactical and strategic aircraft are stationed.