ATACMS at Full Range and Tomahawk for Ukraine: WP on Trump's Plans

President Trump may allow Ukraine to fire ATACMS missiles at full range and has considered sending Tomahawk cruise missiles, The Gaze reports, citing the Washington Post. 

A source close to the decision-making process said that Ukraine is likely to be allowed to use 18 ATACMS missiles at full range, up to 300 km. 

“That wouldn’t reach all the way to Moscow or St. Petersburg, but it would strike military bases, airfields and supply depots deep inside Russia that are now out of range. The package might also include more ATACMS,” the message states. 

In the past, when the Pentagon insisted on striking even deeper into Russia, the Russians would move their equipment out of range. Now it is going to be more difficult. 

Trump also considered the transfer of Tomahawk cruise missiles that are capable of reaching Moscow and St. Petersburg. However, Tomahawks are reportedly excluded for now from the delivery plans. 

“They could be deployed later if Trump wants even more leverage,” the report says. 

A source familiar with the negotiations indicates three reasons for Trump's decision to escalate the situation.  

Firstly, he perceived Putin's disregard for his call for a ceasefire as disrespectful. Secondly, he was convinced of the effectiveness of force after the strikes on Iran using B-2s and Tomahawks. And thirdly, he believed that Putin would only come to the negotiating table under pressure. 

The Gaze previously reported on Trump's hosting of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House, followed by the announcement of a new arms deal for Ukraine and threats of tariffs to Russia if there is no progress in negotiations in 50 days.