The possible transfer of Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine by the United States will lead to a sharp escalation of the situation and will be a step toward a "qualitatively new level of escalation," stated Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov.

Speaking to reporters in the Kremlin, Peskov emphasized the seriousness of the consequences of Washington's decision:

"The transfer of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine would be a step towards a 'qualitatively new level of escalation'."

Experts estimate that missiles with a range of up to 2500 kilometers will allow Kyiv to strike strategic targets deep within Russian territory, which would effectively draw NATO into direct military confrontation.

Peskov's statement comes amid reports that the Pentagon is ready to transfer the missiles and the upcoming meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday, where the supply issue will be key. Moscow has previously repeatedly warned against such steps as a "red line."