World News: Ukraine Escalates War With US-Made ATACMS Strikes on Russia

In a significant escalation marking the 1,000th day of the war, Ukraine launched US-made Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) across the border into Russia for the first time, according to two US officials. The strikes targeted a facility in Russia’s Bryansk region early Tuesday, just two days after President Joe Biden approved Kyiv’s use of longer-range American weapons against Russian targets.

Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed the attack, reporting six ballistic missiles fired, with five intercepted and another causing minor damage at a military facility. The strike, which sparked a fire but resulted in no casualties, highlights Ukraine’s swift utilization of its newly granted capabilities.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky neither confirmed nor denied responsibility during a Tuesday press conference but emphasized Ukraine’s growing arsenal of long-range weaponry. “Ukraine has long-range capabilities… We now have ATACMS, and we will use all of this,” Zelensky stated, underscoring his administration’s focus on achieving a military advantage.

Biden Greenlights Expanded Missile Use Amid Rising Tensions

The Biden administration’s decision to permit Ukraine’s use of ATACMS inside Russia came after months of deliberation. The move lifts previous restrictions to prevent a dramatic escalation of the conflict. This policy shift occurs at a critical juncture in the war, as Russia continues its offensive in eastern Ukraine and intensifies missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities, targeting infrastructure and preparing for a harsh winter campaign.

American officials were reportedly divided over the potential risks of allowing Ukraine to strike inside Russia. Concerns included escalating the conflict and depleting US stockpiles of ATACMS, which have become a critical resource for Ukraine’s defense.

Russia’s Response: Nuclear Doctrine Updated

Following the missile strikes, Russian President Vladimir Putin swiftly revised the country’s nuclear doctrine. The update now allows Moscow to view aggression from a non-nuclear state—if supported by a nuclear power—as a joint attack warranting a nuclear response. This policy adjustment signals Russia’s mounting unease with the West’s growing support for Ukraine and its provision of advanced weaponry.

Putin’s nuclear rhetoric is not new, as he has frequently threatened to escalate measures in response to Western support for Ukraine. Earlier this year, he ordered a tactical nuclear drill after French President Emmanuel Macron suggested sending European troops to aid Kyiv.

North Korean Troops and Broader Implications

Compounding the situation, thousands of North Korean troops have reportedly been deployed to Russia’s Kursk region, a development described by US officials as a “major escalation.” This marks an unprecedented step by Russia to involve an Asian military force in its conflict with Ukraine.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller criticized the move, stating, “This represents a significant intensification by Russia, bringing an Asian military into a European conflict.”

Zelensky’s ‘Victory Plan’ Takes Shape

Zelensky has argued for months that long-range strike capabilities are essential to victory. Following Biden’s decision, Zelensky remarked, “Missiles will speak for themselves,” signaling Kyiv’s determination to leverage its expanded arsenal against Russian forces.

As the war enters its third winter, Ukraine’s actions and the international response underscore the escalating stakes. The introduction of advanced weaponry and the intensification of strategies on both sides portend a new, more dangerous phase in this protracted conflict.