Ukraine carries out first strike with US missiles in Russia
Ukraine’s First Strike with US Missiles: On November 19, 2024, Ukraine reportedly conducted its first strike on Russian territory using US-supplied ATACMS missiles. This attack targeted a military facility in the Bryansk region, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
On November 19, 2024, Ukraine executed its first strike on Russian territory using U.S.-supplied long-range missiles, specifically the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS). This significant military action targeted a military facility in the Bryansk region of Russia. According to reports from the Russian Ministry of Defence, six missiles were launched, with five intercepted and one damaged, causing a fire at the target location.
This development follows a recent policy shift by the Biden administration, which authorized Ukraine to use these missiles against targets deeper within Russia. The decision came after months of lobbying from Ukrainian officials who argued that such capabilities were essential for countering ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. President Biden’s authorization marks a notable change in U.S. policy, as previously, Ukraine had been restricted from using U.S. weapons to strike inside Russia.
The ATACMS missiles have a range of approximately 300 kilometers (about 186 miles), making them particularly effective for striking military installations and other strategic targets far beyond the immediate border region. This capability is expected to enhance Ukraine’s defensive operations as they respond to increasing threats from Russian forces, especially in light of reports about North Korean troops being deployed alongside Russian forces.
The Kremlin has reacted strongly to this escalation, warning that the use of U.S. missiles represents a “radical change” in the conflict and could draw the United States and its allies into direct military engagement with Russia. Russian officials have characterized this move as provocative and indicative of increased Western involvement in the war.
Details of the Attack: The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that Ukraine launched six ATACMS missiles during a pre-dawn operation. They stated that five of the missiles were intercepted, while one was damaged, causing debris to ignite a fire at the military site. However, there were no reported casualties or significant damage.
US Policy Shift: This development follows a recent decision by President Joe Biden to authorize the use of American-made long-range missiles by Ukraine, lifting previous restrictions on their deployment against targets within Russia. This policy change comes amid escalating tensions and military support from North Korea to Russia.
Reactions and Implications: The strike has prompted strong reactions from Moscow, including an update to Russia’s nuclear doctrine that lowers the threshold for potential nuclear engagement in response to perceived threats from non-nuclear states backed by nuclear powers. Kremlin officials indicated that such missile strikes could provoke a severe response, including nuclear options.
This incident marks a pivotal moment in the conflict, potentially altering the dynamics of military engagement between Ukraine and Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has not officially confirmed the strike but indicated that “the missiles will speak for themselves,” suggesting a readiness to escalate military responses against Russian aggression.
