Putin puts pressure on US to disrupt Tomahawk delivery to Ukraine - ISW

Kremlin launches diplomatic pressure

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is trying to persuade the United States to refuse to provide Ukraine with cruise missiles Tomahawk, reports Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

According to analysts, Moscow has intensified its information and diplomatic campaign to create the impression that this step will be a «new level of escalation» in relations between the US and Russia.

«Putin is attempting to influence Washington's decision through intimidation and public statements about alleged “catastrophic consequences,”» the ISW report says.

What exactly did Putin say?

• In recent statements, the Russian leader warned that Tomahawk transmission «will »destroy diplomatic ties" between Moscow and Washington.

• The Kremlin is also spreading the message that the use of these missiles will require «direct involvement of the US military», which, according to the Russian side, «makes the US a party to the conflict».

• Reuters notes that the US has not yet made a final decision due to the limited stockpile of these missiles in the Navy.

Why it is important for Ukraine

If Ukraine receives Tomahawk, the range of which reaches up to 2 500 km, This will allow strikes on military and logistical targets deep in Russia.

Such capabilities can change the balance of the war, so the Kremlin is making every effort to stop this process, ISW analysts say.

At the same time, Putin's statements are part of a broader campaign psychological and informational pressure, aimed at weakening support for Ukraine among American politicians and voters.

Context.

• The issue of Tomahawk delivery has been discussed in Washington since the end of September.

• Experts believe that missiles can only be transferred if Ukraine fully controls the launches.

• The ISW believes that Russian rhetoric is an attempt to «get ahead of the US decision» and create information pressure on the White House administration.