Pentagon Approves Tomahawk Missiles for Ukraine Pending Trump Decision

The Pentagon has approved the provision of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, determining that such a transfer would not deplete U.S. stockpiles, with the final decision resting with President Donald Trump. Despite this military clearance, Trump has expressed hesitation about sending the missiles, citing concerns over retaining sufficient defense capabilities for the U.S. and after discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who warned that such strikes would seriously harm U.S.-Russia relations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has persistently advocated for the missiles, arguing they are crucial for Ukraine to counter Russian advances and to push Russia toward diplomacy. European allies support the U.S. decision to approve the transfer, viewing it as a necessary step to aid Ukraine. However, Trump has delayed the delivery, stating privately to Zelensky that the U.S. would not provide the missiles "at least for now," a stance that surprised American and European officials given his earlier remarks about having sufficient Tomahawks. This decision underscores the complex balancing act between military support for Ukraine and geopolitical considerations involving Russia.