U.S.-Made Missiles Used in Ukraine Attack on Russia
Moscow has reported that Ukrainian forces utilized U.S.-made ATACMS missiles to strike Russian territory on Tuesday. According to Russian officials, five out of the six missiles were intercepted, and only one caused minor damage, leading to a small fire at a military facility. However, no casualties were reported. A U.S. official confirmed the attack took place overnight.
This incident follows President Biden’s recent authorization allowing Ukraine to launch long-range missile strikes on Russian soil. This decision marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, which Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously warned could be seen as an act of war.
A senior U.S. official suggested that Biden’s approval was influenced by Russia’s invitation for North Korean troops to join the fight against Ukraine in Kursk. It remains uncertain if the President intends to allow missile use beyond the Kursk area.
In response to recent developments, the White House National Security Council commented on the Russian military’s updates to its nuclear strategy. They stated that they had anticipated this announcement and do not see a need to change the U.S. nuclear strategy at this time. The spokesperson referred to the rhetoric from Russia as "irresponsible," noting that using North Korean soldiers in the conflict represents a serious escalation in the war.
The UK and France have also given permission to Ukraine to use SCALP/Storm Shadow missiles. Putin has raised concerns that this support effectively puts NATO and the U.S. in direct conflict with Russia, claiming military personnel from NATO would be necessary for these missile operations.
Putin emphasized that allowing such missile strikes would signify direct participation by NATO members, including the U.S. and European nations, in the ongoing war in Ukraine.
In related news, President-elect Trump’s team is anticipated to announce plans for a peace envoy aimed at negotiating between Ukraine and Russia, as Trump has expressed confidence in resolving the conflict quickly once in office.
