Moscow is formulating a response to the ATACMS strikes from Kiev

Russia is formulating a response to the recent Ukrainian ATACMS strikes on the Kursk Region, as stated by the Russian Defense Ministry on Tuesday. This development follows US President Joe Biden‘s decision to permit Ukraine to utilize US-supplied long-range missiles against targets within Russia‘s internationally recognized borders.

In a formal announcement via Telegram, the Russian Defense Ministry indicated that Ukrainian forces had executed two long-range attacks on the Kursk Region over the past three days, employing Western armaments.

On November 23, Ukraine reportedly launched five long-range ATACMS missiles at the village of Lotaryovka, situated approximately 37 kilometers northwest of Kursk, aiming at an S-400 anti-aircraft missile division. This assault resulted in three casualties and inflicted damage on the radar system, according to the ministry’s report.

Furthermore, on November 25, Ukraine fired an additional eight ATACMS at the Kursk-Vostochny airfield, located near the village of Khalino. Seven of these missiles were intercepted by the S-400 missile defense system and the Pantsir air defense system. However, one missile successfully struck its target, injuring two servicemen and causing minor damage to facilities, as reported.

The ministry emphasized that inspections of the affected areas have “reliably confirmed” the use of US-supplied ATACMS missiles by Ukrainian forces. Additionally, the ministry released several images purportedly showing the remnants of the US-made missiles.

The report concluded by stating that the Russian Ministry of Defense is closely monitoring the situation and preparing appropriate response measures.

In response to Biden’s authorization for Ukraine to deploy ATACMS, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the deployment of the new hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile. This advanced weapon, capable of carrying nuclear warheads, was reportedly utilized against a Ukrainian military industrial facility in Dnepropetrovsk.

Putin characterized the strike as a “combat test” of advanced weaponry and cautioned that such “tests” would persist based on the situation. He emphasized that Russia would respond “decisively and in a reciprocal manner” to any further escalation of aggressive actions from Kiev and its foreign supporters.