Russia Threatens Retaliation After Claiming to Down Eight U.S.-Made ATACMS Missiles
Russia has vowed to retaliate after its military claimed to have intercepted and shot down eight U.S.-made ATACMS missiles fired by Ukraine on Saturday morning. Moscow considers the use of these missiles—capable of reaching targets up to 300 kilometers (186 miles) away—a major escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Claims of Downed Missiles and Drones
According to Russia’s Ministry of Defense, Russian air defenses successfully destroyed the eight ATACMS ballistic missiles, along with 72 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which resembled aircraft. The ministry’s statement condemned these actions, calling them a provocative move by the Ukrainian government, which is supported by Western powers. The statement warned of retaliatory actions in response to Ukraine’s missile attacks.
In addition to the missiles, several UAVs were destroyed in the Leningrad region in north-west Russia and one in Kursk, a region where Ukraine launched a surprise attack last summer. Ukrainian drone strikes forced temporary flight restrictions at St. Petersburg’s airport, according to Russian state media.
U.S. Approval of ATACMS Missiles for Ukraine
The U.S. President, Joe Biden, authorized the use of ATACMS missiles by Ukraine in November 2023, citing Russia’s increased aggression, including deploying North Korean troops. The decision marked a significant step in U.S. military support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
In response to the ATACMS deployment, Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed a strong retaliation, even suggesting the use of Russia’s new nuclear-capable ballistic missile, “Oreshnik,” in potential strikes against Kyiv. Putin further hinted that the missile could be used to test Western-supplied air defense systems, as he warned of escalating tensions.
Drone Attacks and Escalating Tensions
On January 4, Russia claimed to have destroyed a record number of UAVs over the Leningrad region, with Governor Aleksandr Drozdenko reporting four drones shot down. Ukrainian security official Andrii Kovalenko stated that a seaport in Leningrad had been targeted, describing it as a vital economic and military asset for Russia, especially as it faces international isolation.
In a reciprocal move, Russia launched 81 drones at Ukraine overnight, including Iranian-made Shahed drones. Ukraine’s Air Force Command reported downing 34 of the drones, though some caused damage in the Chernihiv and Sumy regions.
Russian Gains on the Eastern Front
As the conflict enters its third year, Russia continues to make territorial gains in eastern Ukraine. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that its forces had captured the village of Nadiya in the eastern Luhansk region. In Donetsk, the strategic hub of Pokrovsk is under increasing pressure from Russian forces, as Ukrainian troops continue to lose ground in the south and east of the town.
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Concerns Over Future Military Aid to Ukraine
Ukraine is also concerned about the potential impact of U.S. political changes. With former U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting he would seek to end the conflict, there is growing apprehension in Kyiv that vital military aid could be cut under a potential Trump administration. These developments come at a critical time, as Ukraine faces continued pressure from Russia on multiple fronts.
