Bryansk, Russia – Ukraine has reportedly used US-made long-range missiles for the first time, targeting a Russian weapons depot in the Bryansk region. This escalated tensions as Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a stern nuclear warning.
The incident highlights a shift in US policy under President Joe Biden, who has faced criticism for enabling deeper Ukrainian strikes inside Russian territory.
Ukraine Strikes with US-Provided Missiles
On Tuesday, Ukrainian forces struck a Russian military facility near the town of Karachev, approximately 70 miles from Ukraine’s border. Unconfirmed reports suggest the attack involved the US-supplied Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), capable of reaching targets up to 300 kilometers away.
Ukrainian military sources described the strike as “successful,” with footage showing a fiery explosion followed by secondary detonations, indicating significant destruction of ammunition depots.
While Ukraine’s general staff confirmed the attack, it refrained from specifying the weapon used. However, a defense source told RBC-Ukraine that ATACMS were deployed.
Putin’s Nuclear Warning
The missile strikes coincided with Russian President Vladimir Putin signing a new doctrine allowing nuclear retaliation for long-range missile attacks. This move lowers the threshold for nuclear engagement and was swiftly criticized as a response to the Biden administration’s decision to allow Ukraine to expand its operations into Russian territory.
“This is a very big step towards the start of World War III,” warned Vladimir Dzhabarov, a senior Russian lawmaker.
Biden’s Policy Shift Raises Concerns
The attack follows reports from major US outlets that President Biden’s administration recently lifted restrictions preventing Ukraine from using American-provided weapons to strike within Russia. This policy reversal, coming just weeks before Biden’s term ends, has drawn sharp criticism from both Russian officials and domestic commentators.
Former President Donald Trump, set to return to office in January, has expressed opposition to Biden’s extensive support for Ukraine. Trump advisers have denounced Biden’s actions, with Richard Grenell accusing him of “escalating wars before he leaves office.”
Despite the controversy, some analysts argue the decision sends a strong signal to Moscow. Ben Hodges, a former US Army commander, said it demonstrates that the United States will not back down, even amid political transitions. He explained that the policy could strengthen Ukraine’s ability to target Russian command-and-control centers and military infrastructure.
Risk of Wider Conflict
Critics fear that Biden’s move could provoke dangerous retaliation from Russia, including nuclear threats. The Kremlin has labeled the expanded use of Western-supplied weapons a “major escalation,” while NATO allies have expressed cautious support, condemning Russia’s continued attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.
Observers warn that Biden’s late-term policy changes could have far-reaching consequences, particularly if reversed by the incoming Trump administration. While Biden’s team aims to bolster Ukraine’s defenses, Trump has vowed to prioritize peace negotiations, potentially leading to a significant shift in US foreign policy.
Escalation on the War’s 1,000th Day
The timing of Ukraine’s attack underscores the heightened stakes in the conflict. As the war enters its 1,000th day, Kyiv’s use of advanced Western weaponry could redefine the battlefield while increasing the risk of broader confrontation.
While Biden’s supporters argue the move reinforces NATO’s commitment to Ukraine, critics question whether escalating the war is a prudent strategy. As the situation unfolds, the global community watches with concern, anticipating how President-elect Trump will address this volatile legacy.