Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Issues Caution on US-Ukraine Missile Deal

American and Russian flags with missile silhouettes and lightning.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. warns the Biden administration against sending long-range missiles to Ukraine, citing potential global consequences.

At a Glance

RFK Jr. urges Biden administration not to approve long-range missiles for Ukraine
Kennedy emphasizes his plea as a global citizen, not a political partisan
Former CIA director George Beebe supports Kennedy’s warning
Biden hints at possible loosening of restrictions on long-range weapons for Ukraine
Putin warns of critical consequences if such weaponry is provided

RFK Jr.’s Urgent Appeal to Biden Administration

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has issued a stark warning to the Biden administration, urging them not to approve the use of American-supplied long-range weapons for strikes deep within Russian territory. Kennedy’s plea comes amid rising tensions in the Ukraine-Russia conflict and echoes former President Donald Trump’s calls for de-escalation.

Kennedy took to social media to express his concerns, addressing both Secretary of State Antony Blinken and President Joe Biden directly. His message was clear and unequivocal:

“Secretary Blinken, President Biden—STOP IT! Stop this reckless escalation. I say this not as a political partisan, but simply as a citizen of the world,” Kennedy posted on his X channel next to a video of Vladimir Putin.

Kennedy’s warning highlights the delicate balance of international relations and the potential for severe repercussions if such weaponry is provided to Ukraine. The U.S. has historically prohibited Ukraine from using long-range weapons like ATACMS for strikes within Russian territory, a stance that has been mirrored by other Western nations.

Expert Opinions and International Reactions

George Beebe, former CIA Russia analysis director, lends credence to Kennedy’s warning. Beebe argues that providing Ukraine with long-range strike capabilities would not significantly improve their chances of winning the war. He states:

“There is little reason to believe that the provision of these air-launched cruise missiles will significantly increase Ukraine’s chances of winning the war,” he said. “This has become a war of attrition, and the Russians have enormous advantages over Ukraine in population and military manufacturing.”

On the other side of the conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued his own warning, stating that his regime will “take appropriate decisions based on the threats.” This statement underscores the potential for escalation if long-range missiles are indeed provided to Ukraine.

Biden Administration’s Stance and International Coordination

Despite these warnings, President Biden has hinted at a possible loosening of restrictions on long-range weapons for Ukraine. In a recent statement, Biden mentioned that his administration is “working on” Kyiv’s demand to use long-range missiles. This potential shift in policy has caught the attention of international allies, particularly Britain and France.

“We are working that out right now,” he said.

Britain, eager to allow Ukraine to use its “Storm Shadow” long-range missiles against Russian targets, is seeking explicit permission from Biden. France, which manufactures a similar missile, is also part of this coordinated strategy among Western allies. However, U.S. officials have been quick to temper expectations of an imminent policy change.

DANGEROUS TERRITORY: RFK Jr. rips President Biden and his administration and warns against providing Ukraine with long-range missiles: https://t.co/VsCdUm2Uiv pic.twitter.com/4uLVHreWBZ

— Fox News (@FoxNews) September 14, 2024

The Ongoing Debate and Its Implications

As the debate over long-range missiles continues, the international community remains divided on the best course of action. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been pushing for the use of these weapons, presenting a list of potential targets inside Russia. He argues that such capabilities are necessary “to protect life and our people.”

However, critics like Kennedy and Beebe warn of the potential for escalation and the risk of prolonging an already extended conflict. The decision facing the Biden administration is not just a military one, but a complex diplomatic challenge with far-reaching consequences for global stability.

As tensions continue to rise and decisions loom, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that will bring peace without further escalation of this already devastating conflict.