US intelligence has concluded that allowing Ukraine to carry out long-range strikes could provoke a “harsh response” from Russia.
The intelligence agencies say Russia is likely to respond with "more aggressive action against the United States and its allies, possibly with deadly attacks, if permission is given to use missiles supplied by the United States, Britain and France to strike deep into Russia."
In addition to attacks on European and American military bases, Russia may launch a series of sabotage operations at facilities in Western countries, intelligence officials fear.
At the same time, it is still a question whether long-range missiles can significantly influence the course of the conflict - Kiev has a limited number of such weapons, and it is unclear how many more Western allies will be able to provide.
In addition, after the initial strikes, Russia will likely move its warehouses and command posts out of missile range.
Therefore, the decision to provide long-haul transportation has “high risks and uncertain benefits.”
