US-Made Missiles, Ukraine allegedly used Army Tactical Missile Systems supplied by the US to fire several missiles within the country’s borders- effectively, the first confirmed use of these ATACMS to hit targets outside of Ukraine’s territory during the current conflict.
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that five missiles were intercepted in the Bryansk region, which lies along Ukraine’s northern border, early Tuesday morning. One of the fragments reportedly caused a fire at a military site after landing there. No casualties were reported, according to the Russian authorities.
Ukraine admitted attacking an arms depot in the Bryansk region but declined to say what type of weapons were used. The attack reportedly caused a series of secondary explosions, fueling the destruction. Kyiv began using ATACMS in Ukrainian territories occupied by Russia more than a year ago, but this marks a capacity to operate farther into Russian soil.
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov assailed the United States for being a fuel of conflict, stating that American personnel may have been involved in handling the missiles. The attack is believed by him as evidence of direct Washington involvement in the war.
In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin approved amendments to the country’s nuclear doctrine, expanding conditions under which nuclear weapons might be used. The amendments define attacks by non-nuclear states assisted by nuclear powers as a reason for a nuclear response.
The White House hasn’t commented on the strikes yet, but analysts would say that this policy shift of Washington wants to counter Russia’s deepening reliance on using its external allies, such as North Korea. But concerns are building up regarding escalations as the war reaches the 1,000th day.
The deployment of ATACMS indicates a critical juncture at which strategic thoughts and perhaps the direction of the war could change.
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