Defence Council

• But, according to CNN’s source, there is “a much greater possibility of it happening now than before … Much greater.
• I just don’t know when.” The slow progress of Ukraine’s spring and summer counteroffensive has underscored the need for additional weapons capabilities.
• In particular, Ukraine is asking for missiles that can strike in Russia’s “deep rear” allowing Kyiv to target Russian field headquarters and supply depots.
• This could prove crucial as Ukrainian troops press to break through and drive towards the sea of Azov, 100kms away.

Change of heart

• But Ukraine’s strategy of using home-grown drones to attack inside Russia suggests it is aware of the reasons for US reticence.
• This damaged – reportedly beyond repair – two vessels: a Ropucha-class landing ship and a Kilo-class submarine.
• Meanwhile the German government is currently contemplating the provision of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, which are capable of autonomously approaching their targets.

Pressure from Kyiv

• Ukraine’s constant narrative since Russia invaded in February 2022 has been its evolving need for more – and more sophisticated – weapons systems.
• This includes Crimea – as demonstrated by the recent succcessful attack on Sevastopol.
• Read more:
  Ukraine war: capture of key Black Sea outposts and strike on Crimea show Kyiv's increasing confidence

  To this end, the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, is maintaining the pressure on Biden and other Nato leaders.

• The country is now believed to be one of the most mine-contaminated countries in the world.