Ukraine has launched US-supplied longer-range missiles into Russian territory for the first time, according to the Russian government, a day after Washington approved such attacks. US officials confirmed to CBS News that the Army Tactical Missile System (Atacms) was used, but Ukraine has not commented.
Russia's defense ministry reported that the strike targeted the Bryansk region near Ukraine on Tuesday morning. They claimed five missiles were intercepted, with one causing damage and igniting a fire at a military facility. However, two US officials stated that Russia only intercepted two out of approximately eight missiles fired by Ukraine. The BBC has not independently verified these conflicting figures.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Washington of escalating the conflict, stating that the use of Atacms signals a desire for escalation. He claimed that without American support, operating such advanced missiles would be impossible and indicated that Russia views this as a renewed Western war against them.
Earlier on Tuesday, the Kremlin approved changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine, stating that an attack from a non-nuclear state backed by a nuclear power would be treated as a joint assault. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller remarked that Russia has used irresponsible nuclear rhetoric to intimidate Ukraine and other nations, and the US sees no reason to alter its nuclear posture while urging Russia to cease its aggressive rhetoric. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also condemned the move as "irresponsible rhetoric," affirming continued support for Ukraine.
Ukraine has been using Atacms in Russian-occupied areas of its territory for over a year. These missiles can strike targets up to 300 km (186 miles) away and are challenging to intercept. Kyiv can now target deeper into Russia, including the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces control over 1,000 sq km. Ukrainian and US officials anticipate a counter-offensive in this area.
Russia's defense ministry stated the strike occurred at 03:25 (00:25 GMT) and that a fire from debris was quickly extinguished with no casualties reported. Ukraine's military confirmed hitting an ammunition depot in Bryansk but did not specify if Atacms were used; they noted that the attack, near Karachev, caused 12 secondary explosions.
