Ukraine has launched a significant offensive against Russian targets, using British Storm Shadow cruise missiles and American ATACMS for deep strikes into Russia's Kursk and Bryansk regions. The unprecedented use of Western long-range weapons has stirred global attention, with Moscow condemning it as a dangerous escalation. Kyiv justified the strikes as necessary to dismantle Russian rear bases supporting its invasion, which is now in its thousandth day. Footage circulating on Russian Telegram channels reportedly shows massive explosions and debris confirming the missiles' impact.
These developments come amid increasing uncertainty about Western support as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump signals a possible pivot in approach, potentially focusing on negotiations. The strikes have also intensified fears over Russian retaliation, with Moscow threatening repercussions for NATO countries facilitating these missile attacks. The situation is further complicated by the deployment of over 10,000 North Korean troops in support of Russia, which Western nations have labeled an alarming escalation.
In response to heightened risks, the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv and several other Western embassies closed temporarily, citing airstrike concerns. Although Ukraine dismissed subsequent warnings as psychological warfare by Russia, the tensions highlight a volatile phase in the conflict. With Ukraine aiming to strengthen its position and Russia reacting with nuclear doctrine adjustments, the conflict edges closer to unprecedented stakes, challenging any prospects for imminent peace.
