Ukraine has started actively using long-range missiles, demonstrating a new level of capabilities in the war with Russia. The Ukrainian Armed Forces recently struck a Russian military depot in the Bryansk region using American ATACMS missiles. Nearly simultaneously, Ukrainian forces also employed British Storm Shadow missiles, adding even more tension on the battlefield.
Consequences for Russia
These strikes not only force Russia to reconsider its strategy but also intensify its attacks on Ukraine. The main targets remain critical infrastructure objects, especially in the energy sector. At the same time, the effectiveness of Western missiles causes concern among Russian command. According to some sources, one of the targets hit could have been special bunkers where North Korean generals cooperating with the Russian Federation were located.
Power of Long-Range Weapons
The missiles provided to Ukraine by Western partners have a significant advantage due to their accuracy and ability to penetrate air defense systems. However, experts note that the quantity of such weapons provided to Ukraine is currently limited. Additionally, Kyiv realizes that the window for using this weaponry is limited. The next two months may be crucial, as in January 2025, the United States may see the inauguration of the newly elected President Donald Trump, whose position on supporting Ukraine is ambiguous.
First in Human History
On November 21, Russia deployed an intercontinental missile against Ukraine, launching it towards the million-strong city of Dnipro. Thus, Ukraine became the first country in history to be targeted by this type of weapon.
This was immediately dubbed as a “rehearsal of a nuclear strike,” which the Kremlin has long been threatening Western countries, particularly Europe and the USA. Obviously, Moscow’s threats have reached a qualitatively new level. Events can unfold in two ways from now on:
- The West will try to take a pause, which will require Russia to give up all the occupied territories.
- Conversely, allies will intensify attacks on Russia, granting Ukraine the necessary permits to use weapons.
In both scenarios, the Ukrainian people are hostages of the situation, unable to decide or change anything effectively.
A New Stage of War
The situation on the front line is entering an extremely crucial phase. The striking potential of long-range weapons, if used effectively, can change the course of military operations. However, these two months are critical not only for Ukraine but also for the international security system as a whole. The results of this stage of the war will determine not only stability in Europe but also the global balance of power in the world.
Ukraine is proving that even in challenging conditions, it is capable of fighting for its future, using all available means and the support of international partners.
