Additional Coverage:
Russian Defense Ministry Claims ATACMS Attack Intercepted
The Russian Defense Ministry reports that it intercepted a Ukrainian attack using American-made ATACMS missiles in the Bryansk region. Five of the six missiles were reportedly shot down, while the sixth caused a fire at a military facility.
Ukraine Confirms ATACMS Use
Two U.S. officials confirm that Ukraine has indeed fired ATACMS missiles at targets in Russia for the first time. A U.S. official states that Russia intercepted two out of eight ATACMS launched, with the remaining six hitting an ammunition storage site.
Russia Threatens Nuclear Response
Shortly after the alleged ATACMS attack, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov warns that Russia may use nuclear weapons in response to foreign ballistic missile attacks. However, a U.S. official dismisses this as “irresponsible rhetoric.”
U.S. Maintains Nuclear Posture
Despite Russia’s nuclear threats, the U.S. says it has not changed its nuclear posture and calls on Russia to cease its aggressive rhetoric.
Zelenskyy Acknowledges ATACMS Possession
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirms that Ukraine possesses ATACMS missiles and will use them against Russia, but declines to confirm their use in the Bryansk attack.
Foreign Minister Blames West
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accuses Western nations of wanting escalation by supplying Ukraine with ATACMS missiles.
U.S. Assistance to Ukraine
The extent of U.S. assistance to Ukraine in operating ATACMS remains unclear. Kyiv relies on the U.S. for replacement missiles.
Russia Updates Nuclear Doctrine
Russia has updated its nuclear doctrine to allow for a nuclear strike in response to foreign missile attacks. This move comes amid rising tensions over the use of ATACMS in Ukraine.