US Weighs Long-Range Missiles for Ukraine: New Weapons Could Put Moscow Within Reach

A new American arms package for Ukraine could signal a major turning point in the war. According to sources familiar with the discussions, the US is now considering sending long-range missiles to Ukraine—missiles potentially capable of striking Moscow, Axios reports.

A pivotal shift

President Donald Trump is moving to revise his administration’s earlier stance by including offensive weapons in the military aid for Ukraine. If approved, this would mark the first time during Trump’s presidency that the US directly supplies arms capable of hitting targets deep inside Russian territory.

Axios notes that this political shift follows a July 3 phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the conversation, Putin reportedly outlined plans for a new large-scale offensive, aiming to seize all occupied Ukrainian territories within 60 days.

Afterward, Trump allegedly told French President Emmanuel Macron that Putin “wants to take it all,” according to insider sources.

Two missile systems under consideration

While no final decision has been made, two missile systems are reportedly under review. The first is the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), which has a range of up to 500 km. However, since the PrSM has not been widely exported and prior export requests—including one from Norway—were denied, it is seen as a less likely candidate for Ukraine.

The second, and more realistic, option is the AGM-158 JASSM-ER. This advanced cruise missile boasts a range of up to 925 km and carries a 450 kg warhead. It is compatible with Ukraine’s existing fleet of aircraft, including Soviet-era Su-24M bombers, making it a practical choice for immediate deployment.

Potential impact on the conflict

US officials hope that equipping Ukraine with long-range missiles could alter the battlefield dynamics and compel Moscow to consider ceasefire talks.

However, such a move would inevitably escalate the conflict and heighten tensions in the Kremlin, as it would place Moscow itself within range of Ukrainian strikes.

An official announcement on the new arms package is expected soon.

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