In a strong statement on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized European countries considering allowing Ukraine to use their weapons for strikes on Russian soil. During his visit to Uzbekistan, Putin cautioned that there would be "serious consequences" if Western weapons were employed in attacks on Russia, particularly by small European nations with densely populated territories.

The comments from Putin come as more European leaders express their support for Ukraine's decision to take the conflict into Russian territory. At a meeting of defense ministers, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stated that it is entirely possible for Ukraine to target Russian sites without violating the laws of war. Borrell emphasized the need to balance the risk of escalation with Ukraine's right to self-defense.

Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren affirmed that the Netherlands would not prevent Ukraine from attacking Russian targets. Ollongren further expressed hopes that other countries with differing positions would reconsider their stance. Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur emphasized the need to level the playing field, stating that it is unfair for Ukraine to fight with one hand tied behind their back while Russia launches attacks from deep within Ukrainian territory.

The NATO chief, Jens Stoltenberg, urged officials to reconsider the prohibition on Ukraine's use of Western-supplied weapons for striking "legitimate targets" outside their borders. However, the Biden administration has cautioned against Ukraine using American-made weapons in offensive maneuvers against Russia. Recent reports indicate that officials are currently deliberating a potential shift in this policy.

The increased support from European leaders for Ukraine's offensive on Russian territory represents a significant development in the ongoing conflict. It highlights a divergence of opinions within NATO regarding the use of Western-supplied weaponry by Ukraine. The potential consequences of such actions, as indicated by President Putin, could have far-reaching implications for the region.

It remains to be seen how this debate will unfold, and whether Ukraine will be granted the permission to employ foreign weapons in its offensive against Russian targets. As tensions continue to escalate, the international community closely watches the evolving dynamics in the Ukrainian-Russian conflict.