The head of the Pentagon explained that Ukraine is not allowed to strike deep into Russian territory to avoid escalating the conflict and potentially drawing NATO into a direct confrontation with Russia

Ukraine possesses its own long-range strike capabilities against Russia, according to U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin.

During a briefing following a “Ramstein” meeting, Austin explained why Western nations are not permitting Kyiv to use their weapons for such strikes.

“Ukraine already has significant capabilities to attack targets beyond the range of ATACMS or Storm Shadow. The Russians have moved their aircraft, which they use for precision-guided bombs (KABs), beyond the range of ATACMS. We are focusing on helping them (the Ukrainians) be more effective in defending their territory,” Austin said.

Media outlets previously reported that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Germany for the latest “Ramstein” meeting to urge partners to lift the restrictions on long-range strikes against Russia.