The Pentagon has been blocking Ukraine's use of long-range missiles for strikes on Russian territory for several months, limiting Kyiv's ability to use powerful weapons in the war with Moscow, writes the Wall Street Journal, citing American officials. The refusal to grant permission for the attacks is related to the White House's attempts to persuade Moscow to start peace negotiations.
Only Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth can personally authorize the use of long-range missiles, the publication notes. This concerns ATACMS missiles, as well as British-French Storm Shadow cruise missiles, as they receive targeting data from the US.
Since late spring, Ukraine has not been allowed to launch American long-range tactical missile systems (ATACMS) at targets on Russian territory. It is noted that at least once Ukraine tried to use ATACMS on a target in Russian territory but was refused.
new supplies to Ukraine in early July. The article states:
This policy effectively nullified the Biden administration's decision to allow Ukraine to strike Russian territory, writes WSJ.
Meanwhile, this week Donald Trump stated that the war cannot be won by limiting to defensive actions, but according to the newspaper's interlocutors, this statement did not lead to any practical consequences.
At the same time, the Trump Administration approved the sale of 3350 ERAM missiles to Ukraine, which are expected to arrive in Ukraine in about six weeks. However, for their use, Ukraine will need Pentagon approval.