Ukraine has made headlines by launching British-French-made Storm Shadow missiles at targets inside Russia for the first time. This move comes shortly after Ukraine fired US-made ATACMS missiles into Russian territory. The use of UK-supplied missiles was confirmed by an official to Reuters, although Ukraine's Defense Minister and the UK Ministry of Defense have neither confirmed nor denied the reports.
During a news conference, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov emphasized Ukraine's commitment to defending its country using all available means. He stated, 'We are capable and able to respond,' indicating a strong stance in the ongoing conflict.
A Russian military blogger shared photos of a Storm Shadow missile fragment, claiming that up to 12 missiles were fired at Russia's Kursk region. The fragment, bearing engravings of 'Storm Shadow,' was reportedly found in the Russian village of Marino, near the Ukrainian border.
Video footage posted on Telegram captured explosions audible from the village of Marino, further fueling speculation about the missile strikes. While a weapons expert noted similarities between the explosions and Storm Shadow missiles, definitive confirmation is pending.
The Storm Shadow missiles, supplied by the UK and France, have a range of approximately 250 kilometers, making them a formidable weapon in Ukraine's arsenal. These missiles are known for their precision and ability to penetrate bunkers, raising concerns about the impact of their use in the conflict.
Despite the lack of official confirmation on specific targets, reports suggest that Ukrainian forces are strategically deploying the Storm Shadow missiles in the Kursk region. The situation remains fluid, with uncertainties surrounding the extent of the missile strikes and their intended objectives.