The US has blocked Britain’s consent to Kiev’s use of Storm Shadow missiles against Russia, the Ukrainska Pravda website reported on Saturday, citing British media reports. Kyiv asked London for permission more than a month ago.
Sources cited by British media say the case is “stuck in the system” and discussions are “still ongoing”.
While Britain is willing to allow Ukraine to freely deploy long-range missiles, consent requires the consensus of the Allies: the US, France and a “third NATO country”.
The Storm Shadow missiles have a range of 250 km and can be used to strike Russian military targets located deep inside the country, for example, military bases, which, according to the Ukrainian website, play a “key role” in Moscow’s strikes.
The reason for US hesitation may be President Joe Biden’s fear of an escalation of the conflict. Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh admitted during a recent briefing that the US fears an escalation in the context of the use of long-range missiles. She also suggested that these missiles are not necessary for Ukraine to regain its territories.
US Deputy Ambassador to London Matthew Palmer distanced himself from the opinion on the American blockade. In an interview with British radio, he said that it is up to London and Kiev to decide how British weapons can be used at the front, the portal noted. However, many British military officials believe that America may need time to assess the effects of the Ukrainian offensive in order to make a decision.
PAP/shopping