Army Tactical Missile Systems (Atacms) can reach up to 300km (186 miles) and are tough to intercept due to their high speed

Ukraine Fires US-Supplied Missiles at Russian Territory for the First Time

Ukraine has used US-supplied long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to target Russian territory, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. Russia’s defense ministry confirmed that five missiles were intercepted, while fragments from one caused a fire at a military facility in the Bryansk region, bordering Ukraine. However, US officials indicated that only two of the eight missiles were successfully intercepted.

Russia Accuses the US of Escalation

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused the US of directly enabling the attack, claiming that “American military experts” facilitated the use of the missiles. He framed the strikes as a renewed phase of Western involvement in the war and warned of an appropriate Russian response.

Lavrov’s statement follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s repeated claims that Ukraine’s advanced missile capabilities are directly tied to US assistance.

Changes in Russia’s Nuclear Doctrine

Amid the missile strikes, the Kremlin approved updates to its nuclear doctrine, stating that any attack from a non-nuclear state, if supported by a nuclear power, will be considered a joint assault on Russia.

US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller criticized Russia’s rhetoric, calling it “irresponsible,” while affirming the US’s commitment to Ukraine. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer echoed this sentiment, emphasizing continued support for Kyiv.

ATACMS and Ukraine’s Strategy

Ukraine has been using ATACMS missiles in Russian-occupied areas for over a year, targeting critical military infrastructure. The missiles, capable of striking targets up to 300km (186 miles) away, are now being deployed deeper into Russian territory.

Ukrainian forces confirmed hitting an ammunition depot in Bryansk, causing multiple secondary explosions, although they did not specify whether ATACMS missiles were involved. Reports suggest Ukraine may escalate operations near the Kursk region, where its forces hold significant territory.

Global Reactions and Next Steps

The strikes and nuclear policy changes have heightened tensions between Russia and the West. As Ukraine ramps up its counteroffensive capabilities, the conflict shows no sign of de-escalating.

This development underscores the evolving dynamics of the war, with deeper implications for regional and global security.