Thu Nov 21 15:10:19 UTC 2024: ## Ukraine Launches UK-Supplied Storm Shadow Missiles into Russia
**London/Washington D.C. –** For the first time, Ukraine has used UK-supplied Storm Shadow long-range missiles to strike targets within Russian territory, the BBC has learned. This follows recent US authorization allowing Ukraine to use American-supplied missiles against Russia.
While both the UK and Ukrainian governments have declined to officially confirm the attacks, citing operational security, Defence Secretary John Healey spoke with his Ukrainian counterpart Tuesday night. Reports suggest the missiles targeted infrastructure within Russia. Images circulating on Telegram, analyzed by weapons experts, appear to corroborate the use of Storm Shadow missiles in Kursk.
The move comes after the US gave the green light for Ukraine to use its Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) against Russia. Ukraine subsequently used ATACMS missiles to strike the Bryansk region on Tuesday. The US has also approved the supply of landmines to Ukraine, aiming to impede the advance of Russian forces.
The use of Storm Shadow missiles marks a significant escalation in the conflict. While President Zelenskyy has repeatedly urged Western allies to provide long-range weaponry for strikes inside Russia, previous concerns about escalating the war had led to restrictions. The Storm Shadow’s capabilities, ideal for destroying hardened targets like bunkers and ammunition depots, now represent a new dynamic in the ongoing conflict.
The US State Department, while declining to comment directly on the use of the UK-supplied missiles, confirmed that it is providing landmines to Ukraine in the face of a Russian offensive in the east. The UK Prime Minister reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supplying Ukraine with necessary weaponry “for as long as needed.” The Kremlin has yet to issue a statement in response to the reported strikes.
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