Secretary of State Antony Blinken and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy visited Ukraine, signaling transatlantic unity. The visit's aim was to listen to Ukrainian officials, who are expected to reiterate calls for permission to use Western weapons to strike military targets within Russia. Blinken described the current period as critical for Ukraine as it approaches its third winter of war. He expressed concern over Iran's support for Russia, citing recently declassified U.S. intelligence.
According to Blinken, U.S. intelligence indicates that dozens of Russian military personnel have been trained in Iran to use the Fath-360 close-range ballistic missile system, which has a maximum range of 75 miles. Russia has reportedly received shipments of these missiles and is anticipated to deploy them in Ukraine in the coming weeks. Blinken suggested this acquisition would allow Russia to reserve its own long-range missiles for targets further from the front line, enhancing its military capacity.
The U.S. believes Iran is receiving Russian space and nuclear technology in return, though Blinken did not provide specific details. Iran has dismissed these allegations as "ugly propaganda," and a Kremlin spokesman acknowledged Iran as a partner but disputed the accuracy of all American reports. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy corroborated the U.S. claims, noting a pattern of increased Iranian support for Russia's conflict and a shared commitment to hold Iran accountable for perceived undermining of global stability.
In response, the U.K., France, and Germany are canceling bilateral air service agreements with Iran, and the U.S. is imposing additional sanctions. Ukraine, however, has communicated that sanctions alone are insufficient. Andriy Yermak, Ukraine's chief of staff, stated via Telegram that Ukraine requires authorization to use Western weapons for strikes deeper inside Russian territory.
Ukraine is preparing for winter and working to defend its critical infrastructure from Russian missile attacks. Blinken affirmed that the U.S. has adjusted its military aid to meet Ukraine's requirements, which was a reason for the visit to Kyiv. The findings from the visit will be reported to President Biden and Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who are scheduled to meet at the White House.
Separately, Blinken addressed an Israeli investigation into the killing of an American activist during a West Bank protest. Israel stated the individual was likely killed accidentally by troops targeting another person. Blinken indicated this incident suggests a need for Israel to reassess its rules of engagement and operational procedures in the West Bank. He characterized the killing as unprovoked and unjustified, stating that no one should be killed for attending a protest. This incident marks the second American killed by Israeli security forces in the West Bank within the past year.