Trump Hesitates on Supplying Tomahawk Missiles to Ukraine Amid Fears of Escalation with Russia

U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday he has not yet decided whether to approve the sale of U.S.-made Tomahawk missiles that could potentially reach deep into Russian territory, emphasizing that he does not want to escalate the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has urged Washington to allow European allies to purchase Tomahawk cruise missiles and transfer them to Kyiv, strengthening Ukraine’s long-range strike capabilities. These missiles, with a range of approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,550 miles), could put Moscow and other Russian cities within Ukraine’s reach if approved.

When asked by reporters at the White House about the potential transfer, Trump confirmed he had “sort of made a decision,” but stressed the importance of understanding Ukraine’s intended use for the missiles before proceeding. “I think I want to find out what they’re doing with them,” Trump said. “Where are they sending them? I guess I’d have to ask that question.” He added, “I would ask some questions. I’m not looking to escalate that war.”

The proposal has drawn sharp warnings from Russia. President Vladimir Putin said in a video message Sunday that if the U.S. proceeds with supplying Tomahawks to Ukraine for long-range attacks, it would lead to the “destruction” of Moscow’s diplomatic relationship with Washington.

As of Monday night, neither the Kremlin nor Zelenskiy’s administration had responded to Reuters’ requests for comment.

The potential transfer of Tomahawk missiles underscores a growing dilemma for the United States — how to support Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression without provoking a wider conflict. The decision could mark a turning point in U.S. foreign policy toward the Russia-Ukraine war, influencing NATO dynamics and global security.