Kiev eyes securing missiles to strike Crimea: Zelensky's advisor

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
28 Jan 2023 22:52
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Podolyak noted that Ukraine will be requiring around 350 tanks by March presumably referring to the allegedly anticipated Ukrainian counteroffensive after their retreat in Bakhmut.

In this photo provided by South Korea Defense Ministry, South Korea's military launches Army US-made Tactical Missile System or ATACMS, during a military exercise at an undisclosed location in South Korea, Thursday, March 24, 2022 (South Korea Defense Ministry via AP)

Mykhailo Podolyak, the Ukrainian president's advisor, stated on Saturday that after closing deals with Western countries for tank deliveries, Kiev is now discussing the supply of long-range missiles and planes to launch strikes on Crimea.

"There are two very important issues are being negotiated now: long-range missiles that will allow the destruction of the Russians' rear infrastructure, primarily artillery depots, a very powerful number of which are in Crimea, and aviation," Podolyak said

He also noted that Ukraine will be requiring around 350 tanks by March presumably referring to the anticipated Ukrainian counteroffensive after their retreat in Bakhmut.

"Now everyone understands that every day is a day we pay for in blood, and therefore we need to do everything very quickly," Podolyak added.

Following persistent pressure from some of its EU and NATO allies, Germany agreed on Wednesday to provide 14 Leopard 2A6 tanks to Ukraine. The United States announced that it will send eight M88 recovery vehicles and 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, noting that the delivery might take some time.

In April 2022, after Russia began its military operation in Ukraine, Moscow sent a note to NATO members criticizing their military support for Kiev. Lavrov had stated that any arms deliveries to Ukraine would be "legitimate targets" for Russian forces.