USA halts UK's missile approval amid Biden's escalation fears
According to the Ukrainian Pravda portal, the USA blocked the United Kingdom's permission for Kyiv to use Storm Shadow missiles against Russia. The probable cause is Joe Biden's fear of potential conflict escalation.
Sources cited by British media claim that the matter is "stuck in the system," and discussions are "ongoing".
The United Kingdom had no objections to allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles freely. However, the British government's approval is not enough. Green lights from the USA, France, and a "third NATO country" are also needed.
Joe Biden's concerns
Storm Shadow missiles have a range of 150 miles and could be used to attack Russian military targets located deep within the country, such as military bases, which, according to the Ukrainian portal, play a "key role" in Moscow's attacks.
The USA's hesitation could be due to President Joe Biden's fear of escalating the conflict. Sabrina Singh, a Pentagon spokeswoman, admitted during a recent briefing that the USA fears escalation when using long-range missiles. She also suggested that these missiles are not essential for Ukraine to regain its territories.
Who decides on the use of weapons?
Deputy U.S. Ambassador in London Matthew Palmer distanced himself from opinions about an American blockade. In an interview with British radio, he stated that London and Kyiv decided how British weapons could be used on the front, noted the portal.
Meanwhile, many British military personnel believe that America might need time to assess the effects of the Ukrainian offensive before making a decision.
