A senior Ukrainian official has declared that Ukraine's military operations targeting sites inside Russia are fully justified under international law, as Kyiv expands its counteroffensive beyond its borders.
Official Justification for Cross-Border Strikes
Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to the head of Ukraine's presidential office, told reporters on Monday that the strikes are legitimate acts of self-defence. 'Every military target on Russian territory that is used to attack Ukraine is a legitimate target,' he said. 'We have the right to defend ourselves, and that includes hitting the infrastructure that supports Russia's aggression.'
Podolyak's comments come after a series of drone and missile attacks on Russian energy facilities and military depots in recent weeks. Ukraine has not officially claimed responsibility for all incidents, but officials have increasingly acknowledged the strategy.
Scale of Operations Revealed
According to Ukrainian military sources, at least 12 strikes have been conducted on Russian soil since May, targeting oil refineries, ammunition stores, and command centers. The operations have reportedly disrupted Russian supply lines and reduced fuel availability for Russian troops in eastern Ukraine.
International law experts have offered mixed views. Some argue that Ukraine's actions fall within the right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, as Russia launched the full-scale invasion. Others caution that attacks must be proportionate and distinguish between military and civilian targets.
Russian Response and Escalation Risks
Russia has condemned the strikes as acts of terrorism and vowed retaliation. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, 'Such attacks will not go unanswered. They only prolong the conflict and increase suffering.'
Analysts warn that the cross-border campaign could escalate the war, potentially drawing NATO into a direct confrontation if a strike inadvertently hits Russian nuclear facilities or causes mass civilian casualties.
Impact on Peace Talks
The timing of the strikes has also raised questions about their impact on potential peace negotiations. Ukraine insists that strengthening its military position on Russian soil will bring it closer to a just peace, while Russia views the attacks as a sign of Ukraine's unwillingness to negotiate.
