Ukraine has launched US-supplied ATACMS missiles into Russian territory for the first time. This significant escalation follows a quiet decision by Washington to permit Kyiv to utilize these long-range weapons for cross-border operations. Ukrainian and Russian officials confirmed the strikes, marking a notable shift in the dynamics of the ongoing conflict.
Kyiv’s General Staff announced on October 2, 2023, that it deployed the precision-guided missiles against military targets within Russia, describing this capability as a “significant development” that will play a role in future military operations. The General Staff stated, “The Armed Forces of Ukraine have successfully employed ATACMS tactical missile systems to deliver a precision strike on military targets on the territory of Russia,” emphasizing the operation’s importance to Ukraine’s sovereignty.
On October 3, four ATACMS missiles were reportedly fired toward the southern city of Voronezh. Russian officials claimed that all missiles were intercepted by their S-400 and Pantsir air-defense systems. Additionally, the Kremlin alleged that its forces destroyed two Ukrainian ATACMS launch vehicles in Kharkiv Oblast during retaliatory strikes, a claim that remains unverified.
While Ukrainian officials did not provide extensive details about the targets, they reiterated that the strikes were focused on legitimate military infrastructure. The launch of ATACMS marks a pivotal moment, occurring nearly a year after the US lifted restrictions that had previously barred Ukraine from using American long-range missiles for attacks inside Russia.
Under the previous administration, Joe Biden had limited the use of ATACMS to within Ukrainian borders, despite Ukraine’s requests for broader operational latitude. The Trump administration had similarly restricted long-range strike capabilities, with reports indicating that Pentagon approval was necessary for cross-border missile operations. The recent missile launches suggest that these limitations have been eased, at least temporarily.
The Kremlin has consistently warned that Western-supplied long-range weapons used against its territory would be viewed as direct Western involvement in the conflict. In contrast, Ukrainian officials maintain that such strikes are essential for targeting military bases, airfields, and supply hubs that conduct attacks on Ukrainian cities.
In recent weeks, Ukraine has effectively targeted Russian energy infrastructure using domestically produced missiles. These operations have compounded the impact of sanctions imposed on Russian oil companies, including Rosneft and Lukoil, further affecting Moscow’s economic landscape.
Although the US has not publicly confirmed the latest missile launches, this development indicates a significant shift in Ukraine’s military strategy. As the conflict evolves, Kyiv’s military has signaled that the use of long-range capabilities will continue, hinting at the likelihood of further cross-border strikes in the near future.
