Ukraine fires first barrage of US-made long-range missiles into Russia, Kremlin says

Ukrainian Forces Launch U.S.-Made ATACMs into Russian Territory

Moscow has accused Ukrainian forces of taking advantage of President Biden’s approval and launching six U.S.-made ATACMs into Russian territory on Tuesday. Russia claims to have shot down five of the missiles and damaged the sixth, with debris landing near a Russian military facility. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported, only minor damage from a small fire.

While Ukraine did not immediately confirm the use of ATACMs, officials did announce an attack on a military facility in Russia’s Bryansk region, where Moscow claims the missiles fell. This incident occurred just two days after President Biden authorized Ukraine to use American long-range missiles on Russian soil, a move that Russian President Putin had warned would be considered an act of war.

The decision to allow Ukraine to use ATACMs was reportedly prompted by Russia’s decision to enlist 10,000 North Korean soldiers in the conflict against Ukraine in Kursk. It remains unclear whether Biden plans to approve the use of these missiles beyond the Kursk region. Additionally, Great Britain and France have also authorized Ukraine to launch SCALP/Storm Shadow missile strikes, further escalating tensions in the region.

Putin had previously cautioned against expanding Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles, warning that it would signify direct involvement by NATO countries, the United States, and European nations in the conflict. He emphasized that such a decision would essentially mean that these countries are “in the war” in Ukraine.

President-elect Trump’s transition team is expected to announce a peace envoy to facilitate negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. Trump has expressed confidence in his ability to resolve the conflict even before taking office.

As of now, Putin has not responded to Ukraine’s alleged use of ATACMs on Russian soil. This situation is still developing, and updates are expected to follow.

Anders Hagstrom is a reporter with Fox News Digital covering national politics and major breaking news events. For tips, reach out to Anders.Hagstrom@Fox.com or follow him on Twitter at @Hagstrom_Anders.