Russia’s Defense Ministry has reported that Ukraine launched six US-made ATACMS missiles into Russia’s Bryansk region, marking the first use of these longer-range weapons to target Russian territory. According to the ministry, five of the missiles were intercepted by air defenses, while a sixth caused a fire at a military facility after being damaged mid-air. No casualties or significant damage were reported from the strike, which occurred early Tuesday morning.
The attack follows US President Joe Biden’s recent approval allowing Kyiv to use ATACMS missiles against targets inside Russia, ending a previous restriction aimed at preventing further escalation of the conflict. This move comes as the war enters its 1,000th day, with Russia intensifying offensives in eastern Ukraine and launching strikes on Ukrainian cities to weaken critical infrastructure ahead of winter.
In response to the missile strike, Russian President Vladimir Putin updated Russia’s nuclear doctrine to classify attacks from non-nuclear states, supported by nuclear powers, as “joint aggression.” The decision underscores rising tensions as Ukraine continues to resist Russian advances with increased international military support, further complicating an already volatile situation.