In a crucial meeting that could potentially shape the future of Ukraine's conflict with Russia, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Washington to discuss whether Kyiv should be allowed to use long-range missiles against Russian targets. This meeting between Starmer and US President Biden, scheduled to take place at the White House on Friday, occurs at a pivotal time, with the upcoming US election poised to potentially bring significant changes to the US' stance on Ukraine.

Ukraine has been persistent in its plea to lift restrictions on the use of Western weaponry against Russian forces. Specifically, Kyiv is calling upon Washington and London to remove the current limitation on utilizing weaponry manufactured in the US and UK, such as the Storm Shadow missiles, for long-range strikes inside Russia. The Ukrainian government argues that without these capabilities, the country is at a disadvantage in the ongoing conflict.

However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that such a move would signify NATO's declaration of war against Moscow. Fears of provoking a nuclear conflict have led to reports suggesting that President Biden is considering allowing Ukraine to deploy British and French missiles, utilizing US technology, albeit excluding American-made missiles. The distinction is believed to be a cautious approach adopted by the US, aiming to balance Ukraine's defensive capabilities while averting a direct escalation with Russia.

Kyiv has expressed frustration over not being permitted to target the Russian air bases responsible for launching glide bomb attacks against Ukraine. The Ukrainian government argues that this restriction heavily hinders their ability to effectively counter Russian aggression, akin to fighting a war with one arm tied behind their back.

This meeting between Starmer and Biden holds significant importance as it transpires during Biden's final days in office and amid the anticipation of the consequential November US election. The outcome of the election, which hangs in the balance between Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump, could potentially alter US policy towards Ukraine.

The discussions between the UK and US on whether to grant Russia-strike permissions for Kyiv are occurring against a backdrop of mounting tensions and Ukraine's persistent plea for greater access to Western weaponry. As the leaders convene, the world watches with bated breath, aware that the outcome of these talks could shape the trajectory of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.