Moscow Washington Hot War: The Triggering Move
- The Kremlin has warned the United States that providing long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine could lead to direct US involvement in the conflict.
- Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry peskov, in a statement reported by GazeteOksijen on May 15, 2023, directly questioned the level of US involvement if Tomahawk missiles were deployed.
- This line of questioning highlights Russia's concern that the US could become a direct participant in the conflict, not just as a supplier of weaponry, but as a...
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Russia Warns US Against Providing Long-Range Tomahawk Missiles to Ukraine
Table of Contents
Published: May 15, 2023
Overview
The Kremlin has warned the United States that providing long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine could lead to direct US involvement in the conflict. This warning comes as Ukraine actively seeks these missiles to potentially strike targets deeper within Russian territory, including Moscow.The potential delivery of Tomahawk missiles, with a range of 1,550 miles, substantially alters the strategic landscape of the war.
Kremlin’s Concerns and Direct Questioning
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry peskov, in a statement reported by GazeteOksijen on May 15, 2023, directly questioned the level of US involvement if Tomahawk missiles were deployed. Peskov asked, “The question is as usual: Who will throw these missiles? Is it only Ukrainians or american soldiers?” and further inquired, “Who determines the targeting of these missiles? Are Americans or Ukrainians?”
This line of questioning highlights Russia’s concern that the US could become a direct participant in the conflict, not just as a supplier of weaponry, but as a targeter of strikes.
US Consideration of Ukraine’s Request
US Vice President JD Vance indicated that President Trump was evaluating Ukraine’s request for Tomahawk missiles, as reported by GazeteOksijen. the missiles’ 1,550-mile range would place Moscow within striking distance of Ukrainian forces, a meaningful escalation of the conflict’s potential reach.
Zelenskyy’s appeal and Axios Report
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reportedly identified the acquisition of Tomahawk missiles as a key factor in forcing Russia to end the war. According to a Ukrainian official cited by Axios, Zelenskyy specifically requested these missiles due to their extended range compared to other weaponry provided to ukraine.
Strategic Implications of Tomahawk Missiles
The Tomahawk cruise missile represents a significant upgrade in Ukraine’s capabilities. Unlike many of the systems previously supplied, the Tomahawk allows for precision strikes at long ranges, potentially targeting critical infrastructure and command centers within Russia. This capability could alter the dynamics of the war by allowing Ukraine to directly threaten Russian territory.
| Missile type | Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tomahawk | 1,550 miles (2,494 km) | Long-range, precision-guided cruise missile. |
| HIMARS (example of previous aid) | ~50 miles (80 km) | Multiple Launch Rocket System, shorter range. |