Donald Trump has authorized Ukraine to utilize specific long-range missiles from Western allies following the cancellation of a planned meeting with Vladimir Putin. A crucial restriction on their deployment has been removed, enabling Kyiv to target deep within Russia and exert pressure on the Kremlin, according to US officials. Ukraine recently launched British-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles at a chemical plant in Russia’s Bryansk region, as confirmed by Ukraine’s Armed Forces General Staff on social media, describing it as a successful strike. The targeted Russian facility is known for producing gunpowder, explosives, and components used in ammunition and missiles that have been utilized against Ukraine.
The decision to allow such attacks was shifted from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to General Alexus Grynkewich, the top US military commander in Europe and NATO’s head, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. This missile strike coincided with a commitment from PM Keir Starmer and other European leaders to escalate pressure on Russia’s economy and defense sector until Putin is willing to engage in peace talks.
Previous discussions between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Budapest fell through, with Trump expressing reluctance to engage in an unproductive meeting. Trump has been urging Putin to negotiate an end to the conflict, with recent comments hinting at a possible supply of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. However, Trump has since reconsidered providing Tomahawks due to concerns over provoking Moscow. In contrast, the Storm Shadow missile, which can be launched from Ukrainian aircraft and travel over 180 miles, remains an available option due to its reliance on American targeting data.