Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is seeking support from western allies to use their Storm Shadow missiles to target locations inside Russia. This request poses a delicate decision for US President Joe Biden, as explained by Dan Sabbagh, the Guardian’s defence and security editor. The Storm Shadow missiles have the capability to strike deep into another country, potentially altering the political and military dynamics of the conflict. However, there is also a risk of civilian casualties if the targets are not accurately identified. The US is concerned that providing such advanced weapons to Ukraine could provoke a dramatic escalation from Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that allowing the use of these missiles would signify that NATO countries, the US, and European nations are at war with Russia. This raises the question of whether Putin is bluffing or if this is truly his red line. The use of these missiles could significantly change the nature of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, potentially leading to severe consequences.
The decision over the use of Storm Shadow missiles underscores the complex dynamics and risks involved in the ongoing conflict. As tensions continue to escalate, the international community is closely watching how different countries navigate their responses to the situation. The choices made by world leaders in the coming days and weeks could have far-reaching implications for the conflict in Eastern Europe.
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