Russia will respond “in an appropriate manner” if the US transfers Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, a Kremlin spokesman has signaled, Dmitry Peskov, speaking to Russian journalists on Thursday (2.10.2025).

His remarks came days after U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance said the U.S. is considering Ukraine’s request for the missiles, which are capable of hitting targets up to 1,600 kilometers away.

Peskov did not specify what measures Moscow might take.

Zelensky presses Trump on missiles

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly pressed US President Donald Trump on missiles during a private meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on September 23.

Ukraine has for years desired these missiles as they can fly at low altitudes, perform evasive maneuvers, and reprogram in flight. As such, they would serve her in strikes on command and control centers and logistics points deep behind the front line. Indeed, according to Zelensky, legitimate targets could be power centers, including the Kremlin.

Ukraine currently relies on Western Storm Shadow missiles with a range of 250 kilometers. Russia on the other hand, has a significant advantage with Kalibr cruise missiles and Iskander ballistic missiles.

Ukraine, to compensate, has turned to long-range drone attacks, targeting Russian fuel depots, military bases and infrastructure far from the battlefield.