Camilla Jessen
Trump has authorized Ukraine to fire long-range weapons deep into Russia.
US President Donald Trump has given the Ukrainian Armed Forces authorization to launch long-range strikes into Russian territory.
This was reported by Keith Kellogg, the US president’s special envoy, in an interview on Fox News.
Authorization for Deep Strikes
Kellogg emphasized that, under Trump’s directive, there are “no off-limits areas” for Ukrainian strikes into Russia.
Both Trump and top officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have publicly stated that Ukraine can exercise its long-range capabilities to target locations deep inside Russian territory.
Tomahawk Missile Request
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has requested Tomahawk cruise missiles with a 2,500-kilometer range to strengthen Kyiv’s ability to strike strategic targets.
According to sources reported by The Telegraph, Zelenskyy discussed this request with Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, suggesting that such strikes could pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate.
“They need to know where the bomb shelters are,” Zelenskyy said.
Decision on Weapons Transfer Pending
When asked about the potential transfer of Tomahawk missiles, Keith Kellogg clarified that a final decision has not been made.
Vice President Vance noted that the White House is actively discussing the matter:
“The final decision on this will be made by the president. The president will do what is in the best interests of the United States.”
Background on Previous Restrictions
Previously, the Trump administration had prohibited Ukraine from using long-range missiles, including ATACMS, against Russia.
The new directive marks a significant shift, allowing Kyiv to plan strikes that were previously off-limits.
Upcoming Discussions in Washington
Sources from the Wall Street Journal report that Ukrainian officials are scheduled to visit Washington to meet with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to discuss the provision of Tomahawk missiles and other long-range capabilities.
These discussions are expected to determine the scope and timing of potential transfers.
Strategic Implications
Allowing Ukraine to strike deep into Russia could escalate the conflict, potentially increasing pressure on Moscow to negotiate.
Analysts caution that such moves carry risks, including retaliatory measures from Russia.
No Formal Commitments Yet
While Trump indicated support for long-range strikes, he has not made a formal commitment to provide Tomahawk missiles or other systems to Ukraine.
Officials continue to stress that any transfer would be carefully evaluated in line with U.S. strategic interests.
This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, which may have used AI in the preparation
