The United Kingdom has reportedly given Ukraine the green light to deploy Storm Shadow cruise missiles against Russian territories. This marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, potentially intensifying the situation.
Overview of Storm Shadow Missiles
The Storm Shadow is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile developed jointly by the UK and France. With a range of approximately 500 kilometers, it has been integrated into Ukrainian fighter jets, such as the Su-24 bombers. Until now, Ukraine had used these missiles within its own borders to strike Russian forces.
Change in Strategy
Recent reports suggest that the UK has lifted previous restrictions on the use of these missiles. This change allows Ukraine to use Storm Shadows for strikes deep inside Russian territory. This move could challenge Moscow’s strategic red lines in the conflict.
Russian Response to the Shift
Russia has expressed serious concerns regarding this development. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted that Moscow anticipates Ukraine using long-range missiles, supplied by the US and NATO, to target Russian soil. He said, “Ukraine will obviously do this, and we are taking that into account.”
In response to what Russia views as Western escalations, Moscow has hinted at revising its nuclear doctrine. Peskov emphasized that updates to the nuclear policy, which was last set by President Vladimir Putin four years ago, are now necessary in light of new challenges and threats posed by the West.
India’s Diplomatic Efforts for Peace
Amid the escalating tensions, India has stepped up efforts to mediate peace between the two nations. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is in Moscow, presenting a peace proposal on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India, maintaining positive relations with both Russia and Ukraine, aims to help resolve the conflict diplomatically.
International Concerns
The global community remains deeply concerned that Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles could severely escalate the war, potentially sparking a more extensive conflict.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the Storm Shadow missile?
- A. A short-range missile developed by the US
- B. A long-range air-launched cruise missile co-developed by the UK and France
- C. A naval torpedo designed by Russia
- D. A ground-to-air missile system from China
Answer: B. A long-range air-launched cruise missile co-developed by the UK and France
- What recent change has the UK made regarding Ukraine’s use of the Storm Shadow missiles?
- A. Increased their range
- B. Allowed them to be used inside Russia
- C. Supplied them to Russia
- D. Restricted their use to only defensive purposes
Answer: B. Allowed them to be used inside Russia
- Who expressed concerns about Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles inside Russian territory?
- A. President Vladimir Putin
- B. Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson
- C. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval
- D. Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Answer: B. Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson
- What has Russia hinted at changing in response to the perceived Western escalations?
- A. Its air defense systems
- B. Its alliance with China
- C. Its nuclear doctrine
- D. Its territorial boundaries
Answer: C. Its nuclear doctrine
- Which country is attempting to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine?
- A. The United States
- B. France
- C. India
- D. Germany
Answer: C. India