Ukraine has escalated its military operations by launching British-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles into Russia. This comes just a day after Kyiv deployed U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles, marking a new phase in the conflict as both sides seek stronger positions ahead of potential negotiations.
Storm Shadow Missile Strike in Kursk
On Wednesday, Ukrainian forces targeted Russia’s Kursk region with a barrage of British Storm Shadow missiles. According to reports from Russian war correspondents, the attack resulted in at least 14 large explosions. Video footage shared on Telegram showed smoke rising and captured the sound of missiles, identified as Storm Shadows by fragments recovered at the scene.
The Storm Shadow missiles, provided by the UK, have a range exceeding 250 kilometers (155 miles). Initially restricted to use within Ukrainian territory, their deployment in Russian regions reflects a shift in Ukraine’s strategy to disrupt Moscow’s rear operations.
Western Weapons and Increased Tensions
The missile strikes were a major development following the use of U.S.-provided ATACMS, long-range missiles capable of hitting strategic Russian targets. Kyiv recently received permission from Western allies, including outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden, to use these weapons beyond its borders.
The Pentagon also announced an additional $275 million military aid package to Ukraine on Wednesday, including ammunition for HIMARS rocket systems. However, the increasing use of Western weaponry has drawn strong reactions from Moscow, which views these attacks as significant escalations.
Russian officials warned of consequences for NATO countries supporting Ukraine’s long-range missile capabilities. Sergei Naryshkin, Russia’s foreign intelligence chief, stated that Moscow could retaliate against nations aiding Ukraine’s strikes on Russian territory.
Kyiv on Alert: U.S. Embassy Closure
In a precautionary move, the U.S. temporarily closed its embassy in Kyiv on Wednesday, citing the threat of a significant air attack. Other countries, including Italy, Spain, and Canada, also suspended operations in their embassies. Though the French embassy remained open, it urged citizens to exercise caution.
Ukraine dismissed rumors of a massive Russian drone and missile assault, accusing Moscow of psychological warfare aimed at spreading panic among Ukrainians.
Geopolitical Implications of Escalation
This conflict comes at a critical time. Western nations have expressed concerns over the deployment of North Korean troops in Russia’s Kursk region, describing it as a provocative escalation. Meanwhile, the war has reached its 1,000th day, with nearly 20% of Ukrainian territory under Russian control.
Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration has pushed through additional support for Kyiv, including forgiving $4.7 billion in loans to Ukraine. However, the future of Western aid hangs in the balance as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office. Trump has criticized the extensive financial assistance provided to Ukraine and has pledged to seek peace, though details remain unclear.
Impact of Long-Range Missiles on the War
Military analysts believe that while longer-range missiles like the Storm Shadow and ATACMS won’t decisively end the war, they will provide Ukraine with strategic advantages. These weapons enable strikes on Russian supply depots and logistical hubs, weakening Moscow’s ability to sustain its front-line forces.
Russia recently adjusted its nuclear doctrine, lowering the threshold for potential use of atomic weapons, in response to these developments. However, the U.S. dismissed this as irresponsible rhetoric, maintaining that its own nuclear posture remains unchanged.
Energy Infrastructure and Civilian Impact
The missile strikes come as Ukraine grapples with ongoing Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure. On Sunday, a Russian missile and drone assault killed seven people and caused significant damage to Ukraine’s national power grid. These attacks highlight the vulnerability of the country’s energy systems as winter approaches.
