Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticized Ukraine’s ability to responsibly manage U.S.-supplied Tomahawk cruise missiles, stating during a press conference at the Valdai International Discussion Club that Kyiv cannot be trusted with such weapons. Lavrov emphasized that Washington has not yet decided to provide the long-range missiles to Ukraine, noting the U.S. grants them selectively and remains cautious about others. He dismissed the idea that Ukraine would use Tomahawks appropriately, calling it a “surprise” if Washington viewed Kyiv as responsible. Lavrov also suggested U.S. statements on the issue are intended to reassure European allies rather than reflect genuine confidence in Ukraine’s stewardship.

Russian officials have repeatedly accused Ukrainian forces of misusing Western weapons, including alleged strikes on civilians and supporting paramilitary groups linked to Ukraine’s military intelligence, which Moscow designates as terrorist entities. Recent discussions by U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and former envoy Keith Kellogg about potentially supplying Tomahawks to Ukraine contrast with the Biden administration’s refusal to approve such deliveries over fears of escalating tensions with Russia. The Kremlin argues that even if deployed, Tomahawk missiles would not alter the battlefield dynamic and would require U.S. personnel to operate them from Ukrainian soil.