Western officials indicate that allowing Ukraine to use British Storm Shadow missiles for strikes deep into Russia may not significantly alter the battlefield dynamics, as most Russian combat aircraft have been relocated further inland, reducing the effectiveness of Western weaponry. In response to potential NATO involvement, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that such actions would equate to direct military engagement by NATO countries, prompting him to consider appropriate countermeasures. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reiterated Berlin's refusal to supply long-range missiles to Ukraine, despite ongoing discussions among other Western allies about loosening restrictions. The U.S. and U.K. are currently not planning to permit Ukraine to use these missiles against Russian targets, a decision that may be reevaluated in light of the upcoming UN General Assembly. Putin's remarks have drawn sharp responses from U.S. officials, who accuse him of attempting to intimidate NATO into retracting support for Ukraine. The geopolitical tensions continue to escalate as both sides prepare for potential shifts in military strategy and policy.