Allowing Ukraine to use Western weapons to strike at Russian territory could lead to increased aggression on the part of Russia against the United States and its allies. This was stated by American officials who wished to remain anonymous, according to The New York Times.
U.S. intelligence emphasizes that one of the main risks is Russia’s possible strikes on U.S. and European targets, as well as sabotage operations in Europe. It is assumed that Moscow may act covertly to avoid a direct conflict with the West.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly threatened to deter the United States and its allies from providing Ukraine with advanced weapons. Despite this, the United Kingdom has already expressed its willingness to provide Ukraine with missiles to attack Russian targets but is awaiting U.S. approval.
U.S. military and officials who support the provision of such weapons believe that strikes on Russian military bases and depots could weaken Russia’s military capabilities. However, they acknowledge that this is not likely to be enough to significantly change the course of the war.
In addition, US intelligence services doubt that even if Ukraine is allowed to use long-range missiles, it will have enough of them to change the course of hostilities. It is also noted that after the first attacks, the Russians are likely to move their military facilities out of range of Ukrainian missiles.
The U.S. military could provide more ATACMS missiles, but they have a limited supply, and these missiles are needed to ensure their own defense capabilities.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is convinced that the allies will allow strikes on Russian territory, but this requires a decision from the United States.
