In response to Russian President Vladimir Putin's warnings about potential escalations, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg reaffirmed NATO's commitment to Ukraine's right to self-defense. Speaking on the sidelines of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Prague, Stoltenberg dismissed Putin's threats and emphasized that self-defense is not equivalent to escalation.

Stoltenberg noted that it was not surprising for President Putin to issue such warnings whenever NATO allies provide support to Ukraine. He highlighted that Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 was a clear escalation, and the recent opening of a new front by Russia, where it is launching attacks on Ukraine from inside its own territory, further demonstrates Russia's aggressive actions.

Regarding Ukraine's right to strike legitimate military targets inside Russia, especially along the border near the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, Stoltenberg asserted that Ukraine has the right to defend itself. He argued that the proximity of the border and the front line makes it unreasonable to expect Ukraine not to retaliate against attacks.

The recent decision by the United States to allow Ukraine to utilize U.S. weapons to strike targets inside Russia was confirmed by Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Prague. Blinken stated that this move was a result of the United States adjusting and adapting to the evolving battleground, as Russia's attacks on Kharkiv have necessitated a response to protect Ukrainian civilians.

The NATO meeting in Prague focused on finalizing the details of a support package for Ukraine, which is set to be agreed upon at NATO's Washington summit in July. This support package will also include changes to the organization of weapons and ammunition supplies. Several NATO allies have lifted restrictions that previously prohibited Ukraine from using donated weapons to strike targets inside Russia, a move that has been cautioned against by President Putin.

While Germany affirmed Ukraine's right to use weapons supplied by Berlin to defend itself against attacks originating from just inside Russia's Kharkiv border region, other allies like Italy have been reluctant to extend such permissions. Italy's foreign minister argued that the country's constitution prohibits allowing Ukraine to use donated weapons outside of its territory.

Lithuania's Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis called on these hesitant allies to reconsider their stance, emphasizing the importance of NATO's commitment to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. He expressed confidence in Ukraine's ability to identify legitimate targets and stressed the country's right to defend itself in accordance with humanitarian law.

The NATO meeting addressed the concerns about Russia gaining an advantage in the conflict, while uncertainty remains regarding further actions by Ukraine beyond its borders. Senior Russian security official Dmitry Medvedev had previously warned that Russia was not bluffing when it spoke of the possibility of using tactical nuclear weapons against Ukraine. Medvedev emphasized that the conflict between Moscow and the West could escalate into all-out war, and he stated that the worst-case scenario should not be ruled out.

As tensions continue to rise, NATO remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine's right to self-defense against Russian aggression. The alliance is actively working to formulate a comprehensive support package for Ukraine, and the upcoming NATO summit in Washington will be an opportunity to solidify this commitment.