US Tomahawk Rocket delivery to Ukraine: What Will Change in the War?
The potential delivery of US-made Tomahawk cruise missiles to ukraine is under discussion, with former US President Donald Trump placing conditions on their provision. His stance highlights a continuing pattern of fluctuating opinions and a cautious approach towards escalating the conflict with Russia.
According to The Guardian,Trump has expressed a desire to understand Ukraine’s intended use for the Tomahawk missiles before authorizing their delivery. He stated on Monday, when questioned by journalists, that he had “somehow made the decision” but wants assurances they won’t exacerbate the war. “I think I want to know what they are doing with them. I would ask some questions. I don’t want to exacerbate this war,” he said.
This hesitancy comes as the Kremlin welcomed Trump’s comments regarding Russia’s offer to extend the New START nuclear treaty, which is set to expire in February. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced last month his readiness to maintain restrictions on nuclear weapons for another year, urging the US to do the same. Trump responded on Sunday, stating that the proposal “sounds like a good idea.” Analysts suggest Russia’s ”gratitude” for Trump’s stance might potentially be a tactic to prevent the delivery of Tomahawks to Ukraine.
Ukrainian sources, as reported by the portal Dialog.ua, indicate the US is prepared to supply Ukraine with Tomahawks, initially in a trial batch, with strict terms of use. This approach is intended as a pressure tactic against Russia, designed to gauge the Kremlin’s reaction.
According to Jegor Chernev, Head of the Ukrainian delegation in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, the proposed scenario involves a phased approach:
* Phase One: Delivery of a limited number of missiles with restrictions on their widespread use.
* Phase Two: If Moscow does not respond, targeted strikes within Russian border zones.
* Phase Three: Further escalation of the radius and volume of strikes if Russia continues to refuse negotiations.
Chernev emphasized that this escalation would be intentional and gradual, aiming to maintain control and minimize the risk of uncontrolled escalation.The intent is not to indiscriminately target civilian areas, contrasting with Russia’s ongoing attacks on Ukrainian cities.
