What's happened
Ukraine has reportedly intensified its use of U.S.-supplied long-range missiles, including ATACMS and domestically developed Flamingo, targeting Russian military infrastructure inside Russia and occupied territories. The strikes mark a significant escalation in Ukraine's military capabilities amid ongoing conflict, with recent attacks on Russian energy and military sites. The US appears to have loosened restrictions on cross-border strikes.
What's behind the headline?
The recent escalation in Ukraine's use of long-range missiles indicates a deliberate effort to extend its battlefield reach and target Russian logistics and energy hubs. The US's decision to relax restrictions on cross-border strikes suggests a strategic alignment aimed at pressuring Russia more directly. This move could accelerate the conflict, prompting Russia to increase its defensive measures or retaliate more aggressively. The development of domestically produced missiles like Flamingo further demonstrates Ukraine's intent to reduce dependency on Western supplies and build a sustainable long-term strike capability. However, the increased use of such weapons raises concerns about escalation and the potential for broader regional conflict, especially if Russia perceives these strikes as acts of aggression. The upcoming high-level talks in Geneva may seek to manage this escalation, but the trajectory suggests Ukraine will continue to push its military boundaries, potentially reshaping the conflict's dynamics.
What the papers say
The Kyiv Post reports that Ukraine's 'Ghosts' unit has carried out precision strikes targeting Russian defenses in Crimea, destroying radar systems, helicopters, and other military assets, with videos shared on Telegram. The New York Post highlights Ukraine's recent use of U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles, with Kyiv claiming successful strikes on Russian targets, though details remain limited. Business Insider UK notes the US's recent easing of restrictions on long-range missile use, marking a shift from previous cautious policies. Reuters emphasizes Ukraine's increased domestic missile production, including Flamingo and Neptune, and their deployment in strikes inside Russia. The Moscow Times reports Ukraine's broader use of drones and missiles to target Russian military and infrastructure sites, with Russia claiming to have intercepted many Ukrainian drones. Overall, the sources depict a significant escalation in Ukraine's offensive capabilities, with a focus on deep strikes inside Russia and occupied territories.
How we got here
Ukraine's development and deployment of long-range missiles, such as Neptune, Flamingo, and domestically produced drone missiles, have been driven by the need to counter Russian advances and infrastructure. The US initially restricted Ukraine's use of systems like ATACMS but lifted these restrictions in late 2024, allowing Kyiv to target Russian military assets deeper inside Russia. This shift reflects Ukraine's strategic push to expand its offensive capabilities amid ongoing conflict.
Go deeper
Common question
-
How is Ukraine expanding its missile capabilities?
Ukraine has made significant strides in developing and deploying long-range missile systems, marking a major escalation in its military capabilities. With domestically produced missiles like Neptune and Flamingo, and the use of advanced U.S.-provided systems, Ukraine aims to strike deep into Russian territory. This expansion raises questions about the implications for regional security and the ongoing conflict. Below, we explore the details of Ukraine's missile development and what it means for the broader conflict.
-
How is Ukraine increasing its use of long-range missiles inside Russia?
Ukraine has significantly ramped up its use of long-range missiles, including U.S.-supplied systems like ATACMS and domestically developed weapons such as Flamingo. This escalation marks a major shift in Ukraine's military strategy, targeting Russian military infrastructure deep inside Russia and occupied territories. Many are wondering what this means for the ongoing conflict and whether US restrictions are easing. Below, we explore the key questions about Ukraine's missile strikes and their implications.
-
What’s the Latest on Political Resignations and Military Moves in Global News?
Recent developments in politics and military actions are shaping the world stage in unexpected ways. From high-profile resignations within the US political landscape to significant escalations in Ukraine’s military operations, these events raise many questions. What do these changes mean for the future? Who’s involved? And what should we watch for next? Below, we explore the key stories and answer the most pressing questions about today’s global news shifts.
More on these topics
-
Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
-
Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
-
Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. is an American politician who is the 46th and current president of the United States. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as the 47th vice president from 2009 to 2017 and represented Delaware in the United States Senate
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.