Ukraine fires UK-made 'Storm Shadow' into Russia day after US missile: Report

The alleged use of the long-range cruise missiles came in response to Russia's recent deployment of North Korean troops to bolster its war effort

In Short

• Move follows Russia's use of North Korean troops
• Strikes hit Kursk region and near Yeysk, say Russian sources
• Ukraine's reported strikes come after Joe Biden approved usage of US missile system

Ukraine reportedly fired British-made 'Storm Shadow' missiles to strike military targets deep inside Russian territory, marking a significant escalation in the conflict that has now lasted 1,000 days. The use of the long-range cruise missiles came in response to Russia's recent deployment of North Korean troops to bolster its war effort, a move Western officials have condemned as a dangerous escalation.

This marks the first known instance of Ukraine using British-supplied cruise missiles outside its own borders. Until now, the UK had permitted their use solely for operations within Ukraine.

However, the decision to allow their deployment against targets in Russia was reportedly made in response to Moscow's increasing reliance on unconventional allies and tactics.

The missile strikes targeted military facilities in Russia's Kursk region and intercepted others over the Black Sea port city of Yeysk, according to reports from Russian channels linked to the military.

Just days before the reported strikes, US President Joe Biden approved Ukraine's use of Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to target Russian positions.

These weapons were used earlier this week in a strike on a Russian arsenal in Bryansk. While Washington has downplayed Moscow's warnings of nuclear escalations as rhetoric, Russia's recent adjustment of its nuclear doctrine has raised alarms globally.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has continued to rally Western support, arguing that the ability to target Russian logistics hubs is crucial for defending his country.

He has also criticised past restrictions on the use of advanced Western weaponry, asserting that they have emboldened Moscow to launch devastating airstrikes against Ukrainian cities.

As Joe Biden prepares to leave office in two months, his successor, President-elect Donald Trump, has vowed to prioritise ending the conflict. However, details of Trump's strategy remain unclear, and both sides appear determined to strengthen their positions before any potential negotiations.