Storm Shadow missile: banned by Ukraine in Russia conflict

The US is contemplating easing restrictions on long-range missiles for Ukraine, which would enable the use of British-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles against targets deep within Russia. This discussion arose during high-level talks in Kyiv involving US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Blinken emphasized that the conflict has reached a critical juncture, highlighting the urgency of Ukraine's defense needs against Russian aggression. Storm Shadow missiles, with a range exceeding 150 miles, have already been deployed by Ukraine, notably in a significant attack on Russia's Black Sea fleet headquarters in Sevastopol. The UK confirmed its support for Ukraine's use of these missiles in May last year, asserting that they would enhance Ukraine's defensive capabilities. The manufacturer, MBDA, designed the missile to evade detection, making it a strategic asset in the ongoing conflict. Despite the UK and France's support for Ukraine's missile capabilities, the US remains cautious about allowing strikes deep into Russian territory due to potential escalations. The US has provided Ukraine with ATACMS, which can travel 190 miles, but has hesitated to authorize their use against Russian targets. This reluctance stems from concerns about provoking a strong response from Moscow, which could further intensify the conflict. As discussions continue, the outcome will significantly impact Ukraine's military strategy and its ability to counter Russian advances. The situation remains fluid, with key leaders set to discuss long-range missile use in upcoming meetings, underscoring the importance of international support in Ukraine's defense efforts.