Britain fears US reaction to public approval of Storm Shadow strikes on Russia
Storm Shadow missile (Getty Images)
The UK supports Ukraine's use of Storm Shadow missiles to strike Russian territory. However, due to differences with the US, London refrains from publicly advocating for their use against Russian military targets, citing The Telegraph.
Storm Shadow missiles can hit targets up to 290 miles away, avoiding enemy radar detection. This capability makes them effective in targeting military objectives on Russian soil, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly emphasized.
While the UK approves of this use, it is hesitant to officially seek US permission for collaboration, as these missiles are often used alongside classified American systems, requiring Washington's consent.
Sources indicate that the White House is concerned about the use of Storm Shadow on Russian territory. According to The Telegraph, this could "lead to an escalation in the conflict." For this reason, the White House approaches this issue with caution.
Despite supporting Ukraine, UK government sources suggest that London aims to avoid public conflicts with the US and maintain allied relations by adhering to a "consultative approach" in negotiations with the American side.
Storm Shadow missiles
Storm Shadow is a British-French long-range cruise missile designed to strike strategic enemy targets. It is launched from aircraft and can hit targets up to 290 miles (about 460 km) away.
These missiles are known for their precision, ability to avoid enemy radar, and capacity to penetrate enemy defenses. The missile is equipped with a powerful warhead that can inflict significant damage on well-protected targets, such as bunkers, bridges, and command centers.
Ukraine received these missiles from the UK, allowing it to strike important military targets far from the front lines, including those on Russian territory.
It was recently revealed that Germany and the UK are preparing a new defense agreement regarding Ukraine.
The NYT reported that the US and the UK provided Ukraine with satellite images of the Kursk region ahead of a Ukrainian military offensive. However, sources mentioned that this was done to better monitor Russian forces that could potentially attack Ukraine's border, not specifically for the Kursk operation.
