Kiev is set to receive long-range weapons from its Western backers, according to a statement from London. The announcement follows a virtual call between leaders of the “coalition of the willing” on Thursday. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the pledges, although the specific nations involved and the types of weapons to be delivered were not disclosed.

The development comes after French President Emmanuel Macron stated that some European countries are prepared to offer security guarantees to Kiev once a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine is signed. Macron noted that the contributions were “prepared, documented, and confirmed” at the level of defense ministers.

There have been indications that Germany may be involved in the planned deliveries. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has previously considered sending Taurus missiles to Ukraine, which have a range of approximately 500 kilometers and could potentially reach Moscow if fired from Ukrainian territory.

Earlier on Thursday, the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service accused Berlin of secretly preparing a batch of Taurus missiles for delivery to Ukraine, with their identifying markings removed. The SVR also alleged that German troops would be involved in operating the systems, as training local forces would take too long.

Russia has consistently maintained that continued Western arms shipments to Ukraine only serve to prolong the conflict and exacerbate human suffering, with little impact on the frontline situation. President Vladimir Putin has cited an end to Western military aid to Kiev as a condition for a ceasefire.

The planned delivery of long-range weapons to Kiev is likely to escalate tensions between Russia and the West. The move underscores the deepening involvement of Western nations in the conflict, which has been ongoing since 2022. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community remains watchful, with concerns about the potential consequences of further escalation.