WSJ: US to share intel with Ukraine for strikes on Russian energy sites

The United States will provide Ukraine with intelligence to carry out missile strikes on Russia’s energy infrastructure.

According to The Wall Street Journal, U.S. officials say President Donald Trump recently authorised U.S. intelligence agencies and the Pentagon to assist Kyiv in conducting such strikes. U.S. officials are also asking NATO allies to provide similar support.

Officials say this would be the first time the Trump administration has helped Ukraine strike long-range energy targets deep inside Russian territory. While the U.S. has already supported Ukrainian drone and missile operations, sharing intelligence would enable Ukraine to more effectively target refineries, pipelines, power plants and other infrastructure.

The intended targets are facilities far from Ukraine’s border; the stated aim is to deprive the Kremlin of revenue and oil needed to sustain the war.

Some administration officials say Washington is considering supplying Tomahawk and Barracuda missiles, as well as other U.S. air- and ground-launched missiles with ranges of about 800 km, though no final decision on specific transfers has been made.

The WSJ adds that intelligence sharing combined with more powerful weapons could produce a substantially greater effect than Ukraine’s previous strikes on Russia, inflicting serious damage on Russian energy infrastructure.

One official said U.S. personnel are awaiting written authorisation from the White House before providing the requested intelligence.

By Khagan Isayev