Ukraine launched a series of British-supplied Storm Shadow cruise missiles into Russia’s Kursk region on Wednesday, marking another significant step in its ability to strike deep into Russian territory. This comes a day after Kyiv fired US-provided ATACMS missiles, showcasing newly approved Western weaponry in its ongoing defence efforts.
Russian war correspondents on Telegram reported at least 14 large explosions in Kursk, accompanied by the sharp whistle of incoming missiles. Footage shared online depicted smoke rising from the area, with debris bearing the “Storm Shadow” label displayed by pro-Russian channels.
Although Kyiv’s general staff declined to confirm the operation, an official speaking anonymously corroborated the missile strikes. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office refrained from commenting on operational matters.
Storm Shadow missiles, which have a range exceeding 250 km (155 miles), allow Ukraine to reach targets deep within Russian territory. Kyiv argues such capabilities are essential to disrupt rear bases supporting Moscow’s invasion. Russia, however, has labelled these strikes as a major escalation in the nearly three-year-long war.
Western nations previously limited Ukraine’s use of advanced weaponry to its own borders. However, the US and UK recently approved the use of ATACMS and Storm Shadows for strikes beyond Ukrainian territory, prompting strong warnings from Moscow.
On Tuesday, Russia responded to the use of U.S.-made ATACMS missiles by altering its nuclear doctrine, lowering the threshold for deploying nuclear weapons. The US, however, dismissed Russia’s rhetoric as “irresponsible” and saw no reason to adjust its nuclear posture.
The war, now at its 1,000th day, remains at a critical juncture. Ukraine’s new missile capabilities come as both sides seek a stronger position ahead of potential peace talks, speculated to follow Donald Trump’s inauguration as US president in January 2025.
Military analysts suggest that while these missiles won’t decisively alter the war’s trajectory, they provide Ukraine with a valuable tool to strike critical targets and bolster its position, including in Kursk, where Ukrainian forces hold a sliver of captured territory.
Moscow has also escalated its efforts by deploying over 10,000 North Korean troops to the front lines, a move Western nations have called a significant provocation that necessitates a proportional response.
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