Russia Promises Retaliation After Downing U.S.-Made Missiles from Ukraine
Russia has declared intentions to retaliate after its military reported the shooting down of eight U.S.-made ATACMS missiles launched by Ukraine on Saturday. The Kremlin views the deployment of these long-range missiles, which have a striking capability of up to 300 kilometers, as a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
In addition to the missile interceptions, Russia’s Defense Ministry stated that its air defense systems also brought down 72 unmanned aerial vehicles. These actions are described as a response to the support provided to Kyiv by the West, with Russian officials threatening severe consequences for Ukraine's military actions.
The ATACMS missiles were authorized for use by the end of November by outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden, in response to Russia’s increasing military involvement in the conflict, including assistance from North Korean troops. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that responses to Ukraine's missile attacks will be met with the deployment of Russia’s nuclear-capable ballistic missile, “Oreshnik.”
In a broader context, the turmoil continues as Russian forces claim additional control in Ukraine’s eastern regions, raising alarms in Kyiv regarding the potential shift in U.S. military support under the incoming Biden administration.
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