**Ukraine Fires US-Supplied Missiles at Russian Target**
For the first time, Ukraine has used US-supplied missiles on a target inside Russia. This comes after Washington changed its stance and allowed Kyiv to use long-range missiles.
**Why Has the US Changed Its Stance?**
The US had been hesitant to let Ukraine use the Atacms missile system on Russian territory, fearing it would escalate the war. However, with recent changes in policy, Ukraine is now free to use these missiles.
**What Is the Atacms Missile System?**
The Atacms (Army Tactical Missile System) is a surface-to-surface ballistic missile that can hit targets up to 300km away. It’s fired from either a tracked M270 or wheeled M142 launch system, and each missile costs around $1.5 million.
**How Will This Change the War?**
Ukraine first used the Atacms in a strike on Russia’s Bryansk region on Tuesday. Five missiles were shot down and one damaged, with fragments causing a fire at a military facility. Ukraine may use these missiles to defend against a counter-offensive by Russian and North Korean troops.
**Will This Lead to Escalation?**
The Biden administration had feared escalation of the conflict if Ukraine used long-range missiles on Russia. However, some experts believe this change in policy is overdue and will raise the stakes for Russia.
**What Does It Mean for the Future?**
With Donald Trump set to return to the White House, there are questions over whether he will continue this policy. Some of his allies have criticized it, while others see it as a way to force Russia to negotiate. Many in Ukraine fear that Trump will cut off weapons deliveries, including Atacms.
**Additional Reporting**
This story was reported by Tom McArthur and additional reporting was provided by other sources.