Ukraine Launches ATACMS Strikes on Russia, Major Shift Confirmed

UPDATE: Ukraine has officially launched strikes using US-made ATACMS missiles against Russian territory, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. This announcement comes after months of delays and uncertainty regarding the use of these powerful long-range weapons.

On Tuesday, Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed that the striking capabilities of the Army Tactical Missile Systems would be utilized in a “precision strike.” This is the first public acknowledgment of such strikes since the second Trump administration took office.

The strikes targeted Russian locations, although specific details about the attack were not disclosed. Ukrainian officials emphasized that the use of long-range missile systems, including ATACMS, would continue moving forward.

ATACMS missiles have a maximum range of approximately 190 miles and are launched from platforms like the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System and the M240 Multiple Launch Rocket System, both of which are in Ukraine’s arsenal. Reports from several Russian Telegram channels indicated air defense systems were activated in the Voronezh region, but independent verification of the exact targets is pending.

This announcement follows a prolonged period of US hesitance regarding Ukraine’s use of ATACMS against Russia. In November 2024, then-President Joe Biden lifted restrictions on Ukraine’s use of these advanced missile systems, allowing direct attacks on Russian soil for the first time, particularly in the Bryansk region. However, there were concerns that such actions could provoke a severe response from Moscow, potentially escalating to nuclear threats.

Since that initial strike, Ukraine had refrained from further announcements about ATACMS usage, especially with the return of President Donald Trump in January. This period was characterized by intense negotiations for a ceasefire deal, and it remains unclear whether the Pentagon continued to authorize missile strikes during this time.

As the situation continues to develop, the implications of Ukraine’s decision to fully employ ATACMS against Russian targets could reshape the dynamics of the conflict. The Biden administration’s apparent shift in policy reflects a more aggressive stance towards supporting Ukraine amid ongoing challenges with Western-made munitions supply.

In parallel to the use of ATACMS, Ukraine has been deploying its homegrown long-range missiles, such as the Flamingo, to strike deeper into Russian territory, targeting arms factories and oil facilities. Furthermore, Ukrainian forces have been utilizing large, slow-moving drones equipped with explosive payloads for attacks.

The White House and Pentagon have yet to comment on the latest developments, as the urgency of the situation requires immediate attention. Ukraine’s confirmation of ATACMS usage signals a new chapter in the conflict, with potential repercussions for both sides.

As events unfold, observers will be closely monitoring the response from Russia and the international community, particularly regarding any escalatory measures that might follow this significant military action.