Ukraine under fire: America’s support amid Russian attacks
- On September 13, 2024, Biden and Starmer discussed the possibility of Ukraine using Storm Shadow/SCALP missiles against Russia.
- The approval is complicated by the need for U.S. targeting information and the presence of American components in the missiles.
- Ukraine remains unable to effectively retaliate against Russian missile attacks, illustrating the challenges of international military support.
On September 13, 2024, discussions between U.S. President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer raised hopes that Ukraine might receive permission to use British and French Storm Shadow/SCALP cruise missiles against Russian targets. This potential approval is significant as it could enhance Ukraine's ability to retaliate against ongoing Russian missile attacks that have devastated its cities. The use of these missiles is complicated by the fact that they may rely on targeting information from American satellites, necessitating U.S. consent. Furthermore, some components of these missiles are believed to be American-made, which adds another layer of complexity to the decision-making process. The ongoing conflict has left Ukraine in a precarious position, unable to strike back effectively against Russian aggression, highlighting the constraints placed on its military capabilities by international politics. The situation underscores the delicate balance of support that Western nations must navigate as they seek to assist Ukraine while managing their own geopolitical interests.