Ukraine Strikes Russian Territory on War's 1,000th Day with U.S. Missiles

On the 1,000th day of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Ukrainian military launched U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles deep into Russian territory. These missiles targeted a Russian arms depot in the Bryansk region, some 70 miles inside Russia. 

Although Russian forces intercepted most of the missiles, one hit the facility, causing a fire that was quickly contained without casualties. The attack marks a significant moment in the war, as U.S. President Joe Biden had recently approved Ukraine's use of these long-range missiles. Russia condemned the strike, with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claiming it signaled a Western escalation and warning that such actions could draw the U.S. into direct conflict with Russia.

In response to the missile attacks, Russian air defense systems reportedly destroyed dozens of Ukrainian drones in the southern and central regions. The use of such a large number of drones in a short period was notable, suggesting a shift in Ukrainian tactics. Meanwhile, at the United Nations, Ukraine’s ambassador joined 42 other countries and the EU in condemning Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian territories and calling for immediate withdrawal. As both sides continued military escalations, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the importance of winning the war for Ukraine's survival, warning that the outcome would have global implications, especially for Europe's security.

The conflict, now entering its fourth year, has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions. With winter intensifying, Russia resumed large-scale missile attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, U.S. and European allies, including Denmark, have pledged continued support to Ukraine, while uncertainty grows over the future of Western aid under a potential return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency. 

Trump has criticized U.S. involvement and expressed a desire to end the war quickly, but without offering clear solutions. As both sides brace for a harsh winter, the prospects for peace remain distant, with Kyiv demanding a full Russian withdrawal and Moscow insisting on territorial concessions.