US defense officials have recently restricted Ukraine from using US-supplied long-range missiles to hit targets inside Russia. This decision reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at facilitating peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.
The Wall Street Journal reports that the Pentagon has implemented a system that reviews any requests from Ukraine to use these weapons. At least once, a request to use Army Tactical Missile Systems (Atacms) was denied. This system also governs the use of Britain’s Storm Shadow cruise missile, which relies on American intelligence for targeting.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has to approve any use of Atacms, which can strike targets up to nearly 190 miles away. In November, Ukraine had been permitted to use this missile system against Russian targets, especially after concerns about North Korean troops’ involvement in the conflict.
Before his presidency, Donald Trump told Time magazine that allowing Ukraine to target Russia was a mistake. He expressed concerns that such actions escalate the war rather than bring about a resolution.
While it’s uncertain if the review process indicates a formal policy change, it highlights growing caution regarding the military support Ukraine receives as US stockpiles dwindle.
Recently, Trump reiterated that Ukraine needs to take proactive measures to reclaim territory from Russia. He pointed out that winning a war without offensive actions is nearly impossible.
Moreover, the US has committed to supplying Ukraine with new weapon systems—on the condition that European nations cover the costs. While Trump stated that the US isn’t aiming to provide long-range weapons capable of hitting Moscow, reports confirm that the administration has okayed the sale of 3,350 Extended Range Attack Munition air-launched missiles, which have a range of 280 miles.
These developments illustrate the tension in balancing military aid with diplomatic strategies, underscoring how the situation continues to evolve. For more insight into ongoing military dynamics and policy impacts, you can check a recent report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
All these factors contribute to how the conflict is navigated on the ground and in the political arena.
