As President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for crucial discussions at the White House, the focus remained on whether the United States would provide Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles. This move could empower Ukraine to target deep within Russia for the first time, signaling a significant escalation in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
During a working lunch with Zelenskyy, Trump commented on the potential consequences of supplying Tomahawk missiles, acknowledging the significant impact they could have. He referred to them as formidable weapons, highlighting their importance.
However, Trump suggested that no firm commitment had been made yet, expressing hope that the conflict could be resolved without the need for such weaponry.
The Tomahawk missile is a long-range weapon with a reach of at least 1,600 kilometers, extendable to 2,400 kilometers in some cases. Known for flying at low altitudes to evade detection by defense systems, it can be precisely guided to its targets. While the U.S. possesses a substantial number of Tomahawks, reports indicate a decline in their supply, with limited new orders in recent years.
If approved, the U.S. would sell the missiles to European allies who would then transfer them to Ukraine. However, uncertainties remain regarding the quantity available for transfer and the logistical aspects of launching them, as Ukraine lacks the necessary naval vessels for their deployment.
Ukraine’s interest in acquiring Tomahawks stems from its desire to strike deep into Russian territory. This aspiration has raised concerns among U.S. and European allies due to potential provocations of Russia, which has warned against escalating the conflict. Trump’s discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin also reflected these tensions.
The ongoing conflict highlights Ukraine’s need for advanced missile systems like the Tomahawk to match Russia’s capabilities. The potential targets for such missiles, if provided, could include critical energy infrastructure, as seen in recent drone strikes on Russian oil facilities by Ukraine.
These attacks have affected Russia’s energy sector, leading to a significant increase in gasoline prices in some regions. While the impact has been felt, particularly in remote areas, major refineries close to Moscow have remained operational. The possibility of Ukraine targeting strategic energy sites with Tomahawk missiles would represent a significant escalation in the conflict.