US Defense Secretary Pithexet has threatened Russia with new serious measures from the United States and its allies if the war in Ukraine does not end soon. According to The New York Times, the Pentagon is already preparing Tomahawk missiles in case President Donald Trump orders their transfer to Ukraine.
This tough stance reflects the desire of the Trump administration to resolve the prolonged conflict. With Russian President Vladimir Putin ignoring calls for real peace talks, Washington is increasing pressure, similar to recent actions against Hamas in the Middle East.
However, experts note that mere words are not enough to influence the Kremlin. Pithexet has called on US allies to move from words to actions and to increase the purchase of American weapons for Ukraine. At the same time, the Trump administration is not considering new assistance packages like those under Joe Biden, and European countries’ resources remain limited.
The potential transfer of long-range missiles authorized for strikes within Russian territory could be decisive, potentially changing the stance of European allies and expanding support for Ukraine. Even a symbolic supply of Tomahawks may prompt Europe to provide more long-range missiles, easing logistical issues related to Tomahawks.
Analyst Vitaliy Portnikov outlines two development scenarios: either diplomatic resolution during Trump’s presidency with renewed conflict after a future US administration, or further escalation, risking NATO involvement and direct confrontation with Russia.
The ultimate direction remains uncertain: de-escalation or a wider conflict, even to the point of a global crisis with possible nuclear standoffs. The hope remains that rational decisions by Russian leadership and international players will help avoid catastrophe and drive negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine war.
