Trump hasn't categorically excluded the possibility of providing longer-range weapons to Ukraine
In recent discussions, the potential supply of long-range offensive weapons to Ukraine has emerged as a critical factor that could reshape the dynamics of the ongoing conflict and significantly heighten tensions with Russia.
The Ukrainian government has been actively considering long-range systems that could be provided to them, following a question from former President Donald Trump regarding their ability to strike Moscow and St. Petersburg[1]. According to reports, President Joe Biden has allowed shipments of powerful long-range Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles to Ukraine, but these weapons do not have the range to reach Russian cities[2].
The Tomahawk missiles, with a range of 1,600 to 2,500 kilometers, are under consideration[1]. If provided, these missiles could empower Ukrainian forces to counterattack more effectively, potentially forcing Russia to reassess its military strategy[3]. However, Russia views such a move as highly provocative, with warnings of a potential nuclear response, reflecting the escalating diplomatic tensions between the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia[2].
The focus on shipping weapons to Ukraine is currently on defensive systems like the Patriot missile batteries, which are crucial for intercepting Russian ballistic missiles[4]. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed that discussions are ongoing about everything the U.S. can still deliver to Ukraine without compromising its own defense[4].
President Trump has not ruled out allowing offensive weapons into Ukraine, including long-range missiles[5]. In a recent phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump asked about Ukraine's ability to hit both Moscow and St. Petersburg[6]. The weapons Trump is considering would allow Ukraine to strike deeper into Russia.
Ukraine has previously requested Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSMs), which are fired from F-16 fighter jets, but has not yet received them[7]. There has been discussion between Ukraine, other European countries, and the U.S. about potential long-range systems for Ukraine[8].
The episode underscores the current dynamic between the U.S. and Ukraine, with Zelensky working to maintain support and engagement from the U.S. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump is working tirelessly to stop the killing and end the war[9]. Trump has been having conversations with European allies about the possibility of supplying such weapons to Ukraine[10].
The weapons for Ukraine will be available to ship quickly from existing stockpiles in Europe and will likely be backfilled by new purchases from the U.S. by European nations[11]. Matt Whitaker, Trump's NATO envoy, did not rule out providing offensive weapons to Ukraine, stating that "All weapons are both offensive and defensive."
As the discussions continue, the potential supply of long-range missiles to Ukraine remains a critical factor that could reshape the dynamics of the conflict and significantly heighten tensions between major global powers. The priority remains getting Ukraine air defense systems to intercept Russian ballistic missiles, but the prospect of long-range offensive weapons is a topic of ongoing debate.
The Ukrainian government and former President Donald Trump have both shown interest in long-range missiles, with the Tomahawk missiles under consideration for potential provision, which could empower Ukrainian forces and reshape the conflict's dynamics. Meanwhile, Russia views these advanced weapons as highly provocative, with warnings of potential nuclear response, reflecting the escalating diplomatic tensions between the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia.
