Trump considers sending Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, raising Russian concerns

US President Donald Trump recently hinted that he may provide long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine if the ongoing conflict with Russia does not settle. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump described the missile as “an incredible weapon, very offensive,” and warned that Russia does not need it. His statement came shortly after a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in which he discussed the possibility of supplying these missiles to Kyiv. While Trump did not confirm a decision, his remarks signaled a potential escalation in US military support to Ukraine amid the continuing war.

The Kremlin quickly responded to Trump’s comments, expressing concern about the possible supply of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called the statement “a dramatic moment in escalation from all sides” and emphasized that some versions of Tomahawk missiles can carry nuclear warheads. “Just imagine: a long-range missile is launched, and it could be nuclear. How should Russia react? Military experts must understand the implications,” Peskov said. This response underlines the tension surrounding long-range missile deployment in the region, which could change the strategic balance in the conflict.

What is a Tomahawk missile and why Ukraine wants it

The Tomahawk missile is a long-range, subsonic cruise missile designed by General Dynamics and later by Raytheon. It is an all-weather weapon capable of precise strikes and can be launched from both land and sea platforms. A single missile is 5.6 metres long (about 18.4 feet) and weighs roughly 1,600 kilograms. Tomahawks rely on advanced guidance systems, including the Global Positioning System (GPS), the Inertial Navigation System (INS), and the Terrain Contour Matching system (TERCOM), allowing them to hit targets with high accuracy from distances of up to 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers). Some variants of the Tomahawk can carry nuclear warheads, adding to their strategic importance. The average cost of one missile is around USD 1.3 million.

Ukraine has shown interest in receiving Tomahawk missiles because they are different from its current missile arsenal. At present, Ukraine uses missiles such as Flamingo, Neptune, Harpoon, ATACMS, and Storm Shadow, which vary in range and capabilities. The Tomahawk’s long reach, precision, and potential nuclear capability could provide Ukraine with a stronger defensive and offensive option against Russian forces. Ukrainian officials believe that acquiring these missiles would enhance their ability to strike strategic targets while deterring further escalation by Russia.

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The potential supply of Tomahawks is also seen as a signal of deeper US support for Ukraine. Since the start of the war in 2022, the US has provided extensive military aid, including advanced fighter jets, drones, and other missile systems. The inclusion of long-range missiles like the Tomahawk could significantly boost Ukraine’s capabilities, giving it a tool to strike deeper into enemy territory and strengthen its negotiating position in any potential ceasefire talks.

Russia’s reaction highlights the sensitive nature of introducing long-range missiles into an already tense conflict. The possibility of nuclear-capable Tomahawks reaching Ukraine raises strategic concerns for Moscow. While the US emphasizes that these weapons would serve defensive purposes, the Kremlin fears that their deployment could alter the balance of power in the region. Experts have noted that even conventional Tomahawks can carry high-explosive warheads capable of destroying key military infrastructure, making them a serious threat in a conflict zone.

In addition, the psychological impact of such a deployment cannot be underestimated. The announcement alone has already provoked strong reactions from Moscow, indicating the potential for heightened military alertness on both sides. Analysts suggest that the mere possibility of long-range missile deployment could influence negotiations, military planning, and regional stability.

In conclusion, the discussion around supplying Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine represents a significant development in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. These long-range, precise missiles could give Ukraine an enhanced strategic advantage, while also increasing tension with Russia. The Tomahawk’s advanced technology, combined with its potential nuclear capability, makes it a critical weapon in modern warfare. As the situation evolves, all parties will closely watch how Washington, Kyiv, and Moscow respond, as the deployment of such missiles could have far-reaching consequences for regional security and international diplomacy.