— Putin warns of “new escalation” as Zelenskyy seeks stronger Western backing
By Dayo Adesulu | TheCheer News
A fresh wave of geopolitical tension is brewing as U.S. President Donald Trump hinted he may supply Tomahawk long-range missiles to Ukraine, a move that could dramatically reshape the balance of the war with Russia. The remarks have sparked debate in Washington, Moscow, and Kyiv, with both strategic and diplomatic implications.
Trump Weighs Missile Support for Ukraine
Speaking from the White House earlier this week, President Trump said he had “not ruled out” providing Tomahawk missiles to Ukrainian forces if Russia continues to reject peaceful settlement proposals.
The statement follows growing frustration in Washington over the Kremlin’s refusal to engage in new talks since the war began in February 2022, when Russian forces invaded Ukraine.
“We’re looking at every possible measure to help Ukraine defend its sovereignty and bring this conflict to a close,” Trump said, leaving the door open to potential arms transfers.
Zelenskyy Confirms Discussion with Trump
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that he and Trump discussed the possibility of Tomahawk missiles during a recent phone call, though he avoided giving operational details.
Zelenskyy believes the introduction of such precision-guided weapons could serve as both a deterrent and diplomatic leverage.
“We see and hear that Russia is afraid the Americans may give us Tomahawks — that this kind of pressure may work for peace,” Zelenskyy said on October 12.
The Ukrainian leader stressed that, if supplied, Kyiv would use the missiles solely against Russian military targets, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to international norms.
Moscow Reacts with Alarm
Russia’s reaction has been predictably sharp. President Vladimir Putin dismissed the potential deployment of Tomahawks as “no serious threat” to Russian defenses but warned that such a step would constitute “an entirely new, qualitatively different escalation” in U.S.-Russia relations.
Putin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, told Russian state media that reports of possible deliveries have caused “extreme concern in Moscow.”
“Supplying Tomahawks to Ukraine would cross a dangerous line,” Peskov said. “It would represent a direct challenge to strategic stability.”
Zelenskyy to Meet Trump in Washington
The Ukrainian president is expected to visit Washington on Friday for direct talks with Trump. According to officials in Kyiv, the agenda will center on air defense systems, long-range precision weapons, and sustaining U.S. military and financial support through the coming winter.
Diplomatic observers say this meeting could define the next phase of U.S.-Ukraine defense cooperation, particularly if Congress signals bipartisan backing for advanced weapons transfers.
What Are Tomahawk Missiles?
Developed in the 1970s, the Tomahawk missile remains one of America’s most versatile long-range cruise weapons.
Originally designed as a nuclear-capable missile, it was later adapted for conventional warfare. Modern variants can be launched from ships, submarines, or land-based platforms, striking targets with high precision over distances up to 1,600–2,500 kilometers (1,000–1,550 miles).
“The Tomahawk is a proven missile system,” said Ukrainian military analyst Kostiantyn Kryvolap. “Even though it’s an older design, its range and accuracy could significantly enhance Ukraine’s strike capabilities.”
Tomahawks have been used by the United States in conflicts from the Gulf War to Syria, often as a first-strike weapon to neutralize critical infrastructure and command centers.
Global Implications
If Washington proceeds, analysts warn the move could provoke a new diplomatic standoff between the U.S. and Russia — possibly complicating fragile peace efforts in Europe.
For Ukraine, however, the decision could mark a turning point in its defensive and offensive capacities, offering leverage at the negotiation table or on the battlefield.
As Zelenskyy put it, “Peace can come faster when strength is real.”
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