Russia may consider talks if Ukrainian strikes threaten Moscow, St. Petersburg - media

The Guardian reported this, citing sources.

The article notes that Kyiv is asking the West for permission to strike deep inside Russia with long-range Storm Shadow missiles. Ukrainian officials believe that using these Anglo-French weapons in a “demonstration attack” could show Russian authorities that military sites near Moscow might be vulnerable to direct hits.

“The thinking, according to a senior government official, is that Russia will consider negotiating only if it believes Ukraine had the ability 'to threaten Moscow and St Petersburg.' This is a high-risk strategy, however, and does not so far have the support of the U.S.,” the article reads.

It was noted that Ukraine has been lobbying for months to be allowed to use Storm Shadow missiles against targets inside Russia, but with little success.

“Nevertheless, as the Ukrainian army struggles on the eastern front, there is a growing belief that its best hope lies in a counterattack,” The Guardian added.

• The UK government did not allow Ukraine to use Storm Shadow missiles during the offensive in the Kursk region of the Russian Federation.