Joe Biden is reportedly considering authorizing Ukraine to use British-made Storm Shadow missiles within Russian territory, a move that has sparked concerns about potential escalation in the ongoing conflict. Victoria Spartz, the first and only Ukrainian-American member of the US Congress, has voiced her apprehension regarding this decision.
Spartz, representing Indiana, emphasized the need for preparedness in case of Russian retaliation. She stated, "I think Russia needs to understand that there could be serious consequences." The congresswoman further cautioned about the risk of escalation, suggesting that the conflict could intensify and spread into Russian territory.
In response to the potential use of long-range missiles inside Russia, Vladimir Putin has issued a stark warning. The Russian leader asserted that such actions would effectively involve NATO countries in direct conflict with Russia, significantly altering the nature of the war.
The debate surrounding the use of Storm Shadow missiles highlights the complex dynamics of international support for Ukraine. While the United Kingdom has privately advocated for US authorization of its targeting systems, the Biden administration has shown resistance due to concerns about further escalation.
Pentagon officials have acknowledged that Ukraine's use of long-range warheads, including US-supplied ATACMS missiles, could intensify the conflict. Sabrina Singh, a Pentagon spokesperson, confirmed that the potential for escalation is "one thing that we're always assessing."
"They're going to come in to do a couple of shots over there, and there's going to get all of them hyped up, and then no one is going to backup and it's going to get even worse."
The United States has become more open to deploying these missiles following Russia's acquisition of long-range missiles from Iran. Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, described this development as a "significant and dangerous escalation."
However, concerns persist about Ukraine's ability to handle potential Russian retaliation. Defense sources have indicated that Ukraine's supply of Storm Shadow missiles is limited, having used many in operations in Crimea. While Ukraine also possesses ATACMS missiles with similar range capabilities, current restrictions prevent their use outside Ukrainian territory.
Spartz, who was born in Nosivka, northern Ukraine, has called for a comprehensive strategy to counter Russian aggression rather than relying on piecemeal aid packages. She emphasized the need for greater European involvement, stating, "I think also Europeans need to step up on this issue because it's an even bigger and closer problem for all of them."
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains focused on balancing support for Ukraine with efforts to prevent further escalation of the conflict. The decision regarding the use of Storm Shadow missiles inside Russia could have far-reaching implications for the ongoing war and the broader geopolitical landscape.