U.S. blocks UK's approval for Ukraine's storm shadow missiles
1:41 PM EDT, August 17, 2024
As reported by the Ukrainian Pravda portal, the USA blocked the UK's consent for Kyiv to use Storm Shadow missiles against Russia. The probable cause is Joe Biden's fear of potential conflict escalation.
Sources cited by the British media claim that the matter is "stuck in American system," and the discussions "are ongoing".
The UK had no objections to allowing Ukraine to freely use long-range missiles. However, the consent of the British government alone is not enough. Approval from the USA, France, and a "third NATO country" is also required.
Joe Biden's concerns
Storm Shadow missiles have a range of 155 miles and could be used to attack Russian military targets located deep within the country, such as military bases, which the Ukrainian portal claims play a "key role" in Moscow's attacks.
The USA's hesitation may be due to President Joe Biden's concern about escalating the conflict. Sabrina Singh, a Pentagon spokeswoman, admitted during a recent briefing that the USA fears escalation when using long-range missiles. She also suggested that these missiles are not essential for Ukraine to reclaim its territories.
Who decides on the use of weapons?
Matthew Palmer, the deputy U.S. ambassador in London, distanced himself from the opinion about the American blockade. In an interview with British radio, he stated that London and Kyiv decide how British weapons can be used on the front, the portal noted.
However, many British military officials believe that America may need time to assess the impacts of the Ukrainian offensive before making a decision.
