Tomahawk deliveries to Ukraine could push Putin toward negotiations - Ambassador Whitaker
Photo: US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker (Getty Images)
Possible deliveries of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, along with a ban on Russia's shadow fleet, could push Russian leader Vladimir Putin toward peace negotiations, US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said, according to La Repubblica.
Whitaker explained that the potential for deep strikes with Tomahawk missiles, among other measures, could change Putin's calculations regarding the war in Ukraine. He noted that such a threat could put many things at risk, including critical energy infrastructure in Russia.
The US Ambassador also pointed out that, for now, Russia is unlikely to abandon its maximalist goals, but the situation could change.
Whitaker added that steps like blocking the shadow fleet, supplying Tomahawks, and other forms of pressure might push Putin to negotiate, and suggested that if anyone can do it, it's President Trump.
He emphasized that the war and killings must end, and both sides need to come to the negotiating table.
Tomahawk deliveries to Ukraine
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet with US President Donald Trump in Washington on October 17, where the possible delivery of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine will be discussed.
Talks about supplying Tomahawks to Ukraine intensified last month following Zelenskyy's visit to New York. Trump had previously given no specifics on sending Tomahawks to Kyiv, but recently stated he was open to the idea, while noting he would first speak with Putin.
Russia reacted to the potential delivery of long-range missiles to Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin warned the US of worsening relations and announced plans to strengthen Russia's air defenses. He called Zelenskyy's threats to strike the Kremlin with Tomahawks as blackmail and showing off.
