(Reuters) – Russia’s military announced on Wednesday that it had successfully intercepted and shot down two long-range ATACM missiles, which were manufactured in the United States and fired by Ukraine at Russian targets. State media reported this event as the first of its kind. The Russian defense ministry revealed this information as part of its regular updates on the ongoing war in Ukraine, which Moscow describes as “a special military operation.” No further details were provided, and neither Kyiv nor Washington immediately commented on the matter. Independent verification of Moscow’s claim was not possible.
Ukraine had previously declared that it had used the ATACMS missiles, supplied by the United States, for the first time, resulting in significant damage to two airfields that housed Russian helicopters and other equipment. The U.S. Army’s official website describes ATACMS missiles as being designed for “deep attack of enemy second-echelon forces.”
Following these events, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his belief that the United States was becoming more deeply involved in the Ukraine conflict and made a mistake by providing Ukraine with these missiles. Putin argued that the provision of such weaponry would not alter the situation on the battlefield and could easily be repelled.
The interception and destruction of the ATACM missiles by Russia’s air defense forces mark a significant development in the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. It demonstrates the effectiveness of Russia’s air defense systems in countering foreign threats to its territories.
It is important to note that Reuters was unable to confirm Moscow’s claims independently, highlighting the need for further investigation into the incident. Any comments or reactions from Kyiv and Washington are still awaited. The use of U.S.-made missiles by Ukraine against Russian targets adds a new dimension to the conflict and possibly escalates tensions between the two nations.
The Russian military’s successful interception of the ATACMS missiles underscores its capability to defend its interests and maintain its military advantage in the region, which could have broader implications for the dynamics of the conflict. The use of advanced weaponry in the conflict further highlights the complexity and intensity of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The impact of these events on the geopolitical landscape remains uncertain, as it potentially strains the relationship between the United States and Russia. The aftermath of this incident will likely result in heightened tensions and the need for diplomatic resolutions to mitigate further escalations.
The international community will closely monitor the situation and assess the implications of this development on the ongoing conflict, particularly in relation to the involvement of foreign powers and the potential consequences for regional stability.
Andrew Osborn reporting for Reuters. Editing by Leslie Adler.
