By John Q. Hosedrinker 
In his evening address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia fears the United States providing Ukraine with Tomahawk long-range missiles, and this pressure could be effective in ending the war. Zelenskyy announced an agreement with the US, confirming that teams and militaries from both countries will be working on the matters discussed, including defense capabilities. This includes Patriots and other systems. The Kremlin has expressed “serious concern” over the possibility of Tomahawk missile delivery to Ukraine.
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Zelenskyy’s perspective, as I understand it, hinges on the potential for Tomahawk missiles to bring about a more decisive shift in the ongoing conflict, and it’s easy to see why. Russia’s reactions often speak volumes. The harder they protest, the more apprehensive they are. He appears to be communicating this view to secure their use, which tells me that he sees their deployment as a potential game-changer. The mere thought of these long-range, precision-guided weapons potentially targeting Russian assets must send a chill down the spine of the Kremlin.
The Tomahawk missile itself, while a veteran of multiple conflicts, still packs a serious punch. With a range that allows for strategic strikes deep within Russian territory, it could fundamentally alter the dynamics of the war. The capability to strike key military installations, command centers, and supply lines is a significant leap from the armaments Ukraine currently uses. These are old systems, but that doesnt mean they are bad; the fact is, they remain a potent tool of war.
I think the real impact lies in the symbolism. For decades, the launch of Tomahawk missiles has been a staple in the visual rhetoric of American power projection. Seeing these missiles flying towards targets in Russia would be a powerful message, not only to the Kremlin but also to the Russian people. It would be a clear indication that the West is stepping up its commitment, potentially forcing Russia to reconsider its strategy. This is also the reason why it could lead to Peace.
Now, a few practical aspects are worth considering. The Tomahawk isn’t just about range and firepower. Its advanced navigation system, relying on a combination of GPS, terrain matching, and digital scene correlation, makes it exceptionally difficult to jam or intercept. This adds a layer of survivability, increasing the likelihood of successfully hitting their targets. The variety of warheads available also offers Ukraine flexibility in choosing the right tool for the job, be it bunker-busters, cluster munitions, or other specialized payloads.
However, some key questions do arise. The potential for escalation is a real concern. If the US is involved in planning, guiding, and launching these missiles, then in effect, they are at war with Russia, according to some, but others refute this as GMLRS and ATACMS missiles have already been transfered without a declaration of war. It’s understandable why some worry about the potential for a proxy war to escalate into something far more devastating. The complexity of integrating a new weapons platform into Ukraine’s existing arsenal is another factor. It would be a process that will take a lot of time.
And as for the impact on the ground, it might be more complicated than simply launching missiles. Ukraine already has systems that can reach into Russian territory, so these missiles would not necessarily be a surprise for Russia’s forces. And it does make a difference what is on the other end of the missile; Moscow, for example, holds different significance than other Russian cities. The potential impact of such a strike is what could make the situation much more difficult for Russia.
Regardless, it is important to consider the longer-term implications. The war has, in many ways, become a testing ground for new technologies and tactics. The Russians have been learning, adapting, and sharing their experience with allies like China. Any deployment of new weapons systems, like the Tomahawk, will likely prompt a response from the Russians, and could lead to new defensive strategies. This potential escalation is what would lead to a swift conclusion.
The decision to send Tomahawk missiles is a complex one, with significant geopolitical implications. It’s not just about the missiles themselves but the message they send. A clear signal of Western resolve could indeed encourage Russia to the negotiating table, ultimately accelerating the path towards a lasting peace.