The Ukrainian military launched its first-ever strike on Russian territory using the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), according to RBC Ukraine. The attack, which occurred in a border region, follows a significant shift in U.S. policy, as President Joe Biden authorized Ukraine to deploy U.S.-supplied long-range missiles within Russia.

The decision comes as Biden nears the end of his term, potentially altering the dynamics of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. In contrast, President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to limit U.S. support for Ukraine, advocating for an end to the conflict. Biden’s authorization aligns with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s longstanding request for permission to strike within Russia using American weaponry

What are ATACMS missiles?

The Army Tactical Missile System, or ATACMS, is a surface-to-surface ballistic missile developed by Lockheed Martin. It has a maximum range of 300 kilometers and is powered by solid rocket propellant. Designed for precision and speed, the missile’s trajectory makes it challenging to intercept, giving Ukraine a critical tool in its defense strategy.

Previously, Kyiv deployed ATACMS exclusively against Russian targets in occupied Ukrainian territories. This marks the first time Ukraine has been allowed to use the missiles on Russian soil, signaling a significant escalation. While Ukraine has not officially confirmed the strikes, President Zelensky hinted at recent military operations, stating, “Strikes are not made with words… The missiles will speak for themselves.”

Rising costs for Russia

The decision to allow Ukraine to use ATACMS within Russia is viewed as a symbolic and strategic move. A Western diplomat in Kyiv described the action as unlikely to be decisive but emphasized its importance in demonstrating continued military support for Ukraine. “It can raise the war cost for Russia,” the diplomat told the BBC anonymously.

The shift in U.S. policy could alter the trajectory of the conflict, increasing pressure on Moscow while showcasing the depth of Western backing for Ukraine. As the war continues, the introduction of ATACMS in cross-border operations highlights both the escalating stakes and the geopolitical implications of the conflict.