Director of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, called on Western countries to stop supplying Ukraine with weapons, because such an arrangement could be a “huge danger to civilian facilities.” Recently, Director Zakharova stated in a briefing to the foreign ministry that EU and NATO countries have been coming to the aid of the Ukrainian military to go against the Russian troops by sending them various weapons. She notes it could only amplify the already extremely dangerous and deadly situation; however, the weapons are arguably being sent for Ukraine to defend themselves rather than prolong the war. The U.S. and other allies are analyzing their role in supporting Ukraine and the most constructive ways to do so.
The weapons being called into question are man-portable systems, meaning guided weapons that are a threat to low-flying aircrafts. These include several missile systems such as FIM-92 Stinger, Javelin, NLAW and Carl Gustaf antitank missile systems that are listed as “among the most sensitive types of weapons” according to Zakharova. Since the start of the Russian attack on February 24th, there have been many weapons sent from Ukraine allies. According to the New York Times, over 17,000 antitank weapons have been imported from the United States and NATO over the boarders of Poland and Romania to Kyiv and other major cities.
It is important to look at the role of Spokeswoman Zakharova in asking Western countries to stop sending weapons. While it does arguably prolong the destruction of both troops and civilians, providing these antitank missile systems supports the global principals of the right for humans to defend themselves. Not only that, but other countries aiding in their defence displays an allyship against the lawless attacks that Russia has executed.
Most recently, a bipartisan group of over 40 lawmakers in the U.S. have asked President Biden to work with NATO allies and other European partners to send more support to Ukraine as they are in “dire need of more lethal aid.” While it is an important use of democratic power, it is essential to take into consideration what would support the ending of war in a more efficacious manner. The U.S. and other allies have a humanitarian requirement to provide support swiftly as they have limited amounts of time before Russia is in control of more land and air traffic over Ukraine.
Moving forward, discussion between allied countries needs to provide aid conducive to protecting the Ukraine, while preventing Russia from expanding the war. Whether that is through sending more antitank weapons that Director Zakharova is condemning, or tactical intelligence systems, it needs to happen fast.
