 Elon Musk calls US readiness to support strikes on Crimea a relentless escalation. Elon Musk called Washington's reported readiness to support Ukrainian strikes on Crimea a relentless escalation, calling it risky for the world. I am super pro Ukraine, but relentless escalation is very risky for Ukraine and the world, Musk tweeted. He posted this tweet in response to another user who linked the corresponding article in the New York Times. Earlier this week, the newspaper reported citing its sources that the Biden administration is inclined to think that the Ukrainian military should be able to strike Crimea territory, thus acquiring a stronger position at future negotiations. Even if such step increases the risk of an escalation, US National Security Council coordinator for strategic communications, John Kirby said that Washington considers Crimea a part of Ukraine, adding that Kiev, in Washington's opinion, should independently decide which regions to strike or to seek to regain control over. After months of discussions with Ukrainian officials, the Biden administration is finally starting to concede that Kiev may need the power to strike the Russian sanctuary, even if such a move increases the risk of escalation, according to several US officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive debate. Crimea, between the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, is home to tens of thousands of dug-in Russian troops and numerous Russian military bases. White House officials insist there is no change in position. Crimea, they say, belongs to Ukraine. We have said throughout the war that Crimea is Ukraine, and Ukraine has the right to defend themselves and their sovereign territory in their internationally recognized borders, said Adrien Watson, a spokesman, a spokeswoman for the National Security Council. Privately, military and administration officials had questioned the utility of Ukraine, focusing attacks on Crimea, arguing Kiev's military had better targets elsewhere on the battlefield.