U.S. envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg has opened a new chapter in the debate over military assistance to Kyiv by publicly raising the possibility of Ukraine using American-supplied weapons to strike targets inside Russian territory. The remarks, made Sunday in an interview with Fox News, immediately drew reactions in Moscow, where the Kremlin sought to downplay the significance of Washington’s new rhetoric.
“There is no miracle weapon,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov insisted, emphasizing that no delivery of Western arms could decisively alter the situation on the front line. Kellogg was asked whether U.S. President Donald Trump had given the green light for such strikes. Citing statements he said he had read from Trump himself, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Kellogg replied firmly:
“The answer is yes.” He also urged Ukraine to “use the ability to strike deep,” warning that “there are no safe places of retreat” for Russian forces. The debate now centers on whether to supply Ukraine with Tomahawk cruise missiles, one of the most advanced weapons in the U.S. arsenal. Vance confirmed in the same interview that the administration is seriously considering the option, though he stressed that the “final decision” will rest with Trump.
It is worth noting that in the past, Trump had rejected Kyiv’s requests for such weapons. Tomahawks, depending on the model, have a range of between 1,300 and 2,500 kilometers, which would give Ukraine the capability to strike deep into Russian territory, including critical infrastructure. The Kremlin, however, insists that the delivery of Tomahawks or other Western missiles will not change the dynamics of the war.
“There is no magic weapon. Whether Tomahawks or other missiles, they will not alter the frontline situation in favor of the Ukrainian regime,” Peskov declared in Moscow. With these remarks, Russia aims to project strength and downplay the potential consequences of Washington’s deliberations. This war of words comes at a time of shifting U.S. policy toward Russia.
After beginning his presidency with attempts at rapprochement with Moscow, Trump has in recent months hardened his stance against the Kremlin. Last week, during the UN General Debate in New York, Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and stated that with European support, Ukraine could reclaim all territories currently occupied by Russian forces.
The possible delivery of Tomahawk missiles and authorization for strikes inside Russia add further tension to a conflict that shows no signs of resolution. Instead, it appears to be entering a new phase of strategic confrontation, with the role of the United States and its military decisions likely to prove decisive for the future of the war in Eastern Europe.
