Kremlin Warns of Retaliation Against Potential U.S. Support for Ukraine's Long-Range Strikes

The Kremlin has warned of an 'appropriate response' if the U.S. allows Ukraine to use long-range ATACMS missiles for strikes inside Russia, a move Moscow suspects has already been approved. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy has urged the West for such support, while the U.S. remains hesitant due to escalation fears.

The Kremlin issued a warning on Wednesday that Russia would implement 'an appropriate response' if the United States permits Ukraine to execute long-range strikes deep within Russia using ATACMS missiles. Moscow suspects that a decision has already been made by Washington.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has consistently requested the West's approval to use long-range weapons against Russia. U.S. President Joe Biden indicated on Tuesday that his administration is 'working that out now' when questioned about lifting restrictions on Kyiv's use of such missiles. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov suggested that Washington has already resolved to permit these strikes.

Peskov cautioned that Moscow would respond 'appropriately,' but noted that not all actions would elicit a reaction. Peskov reiterated that what Russia calls its 'special military operation' is the standing response to Western decisions favoring Ukraine. The U.S. has been cautious about providing long-range weapons to Kyiv, fearing potential escalation of the ongoing conflict, but is reportedly nearing an agreement.

(With inputs from agencies.)