US President-elect Donald Trump has expressed his opposition to the use of American long-range weapons to strike Russia in an interview with Time magazine, saying such actions only exacerbate the conflict.

"I absolutely disagree with sending missiles hundreds of miles into Russia. Why are we doing this? We are simply escalating this conflict and making it worse," - he noted.

At the same time, Trump confirmed that the United States will continue to provide support to Ukraine in order to increase pressure on Moscow during the negotiations.

"I want to reach an agreement and the only way to reach an agreement is to not back down.", he added, emphasizing the importance of taking a tough stance toward Russia.

These statements have resonated in both the American and international communities. Analysts note that Trump’s position demonstrates a desire to find a balance between supporting Ukraine and preventing further escalation of the conflict. Trump has previously stated his intention to reconsider the US approach to the Ukrainian crisis, focusing on diplomatic solutions.

In recent months, the supply of long-range weapons, including ATACMS missiles, has sparked debate in the US Congress. Some lawmakers believe the supplies are necessary to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses, while others warn of the risk of the conflict escalating into a full-scale war between Russia and NATO.

At the same time, Russian authorities assessed the supply of long-range weapons to Ukraine as a provocation. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that Moscow would respond to such actions by the US with symmetrical measures.

Trump appears to be banking on using Ukraine's support as leverage in negotiations with Russia. But his comments about not attacking Russian territory could signal a possible change in U.S. policy toward the conflict.