On Tuesday, Ukraine launched its first long-range strikes inside Russian territory, using U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles. The strikes targeted military sites in the Bryansk region of Russia, destroying a munitions depot, as confirmed by the Russian Ministry of Defense. This action took place on the thousandth day of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.
Prior to this, the U.S. had only authorized Ukraine to use the ATACMS missiles within its own borders. The weapons, which rely on American navigation and targeting systems, involve U.S. personnel in the targeting process. This direct involvement in strikes on Russian territory has been a major point of contention for the Russian government, which has repeatedly warned that such actions cross a redline.
Ukraine Escalates Conflict with Long-Range Strikes on Russian Territory, Prompting Nuclear Doctrine Revision
In response to Ukraine’s missile strikes, Russian President Vladimir Putin approved a revised nuclear doctrine. The new doctrine declares that any attack on Russia by a non-nuclear nation, with support from a nuclear power, will be considered a joint attack. This is a direct response to the U.S. and European backing of Ukraine and reflects Russia’s intent to expand its nuclear options to deter further involvement by other nations.
This escalation occurs as the U.S. prepares for the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, who has vowed to end the war in Ukraine swiftly, potentially through a negotiated settlement. The timing of these developments suggests growing tensions as the conflict continues, with international and diplomatic implications on the horizon.
