Ukraine Fires British Storm Shadow Missiles into Russia as Conflict Escalates

In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has fired British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles into Russian territory for the first time. This development follows a recent policy shift by the US and UK, allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles to target Russian positions.

The use of these missiles marks a new phase in the war, with Russia warning of potential intensified military responses. The Storm Shadow missiles, first provided to Ukraine in May 2023, have been a subject of debate regarding their use against targets in Russia. The decision to allow their use comes after President Joe Biden permitted Ukraine to use US-supplied long-range missiles, including the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS).

This escalation is part of a broader context where Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has entered its 1000th day. The conflict has resulted in severe humanitarian and economic consequences, including over 30,000 civilian casualties, the displacement of 13 million people, and significant damage to Ukraine’s energy grid and civilian infrastructure. Russia’s military has also suffered heavily, with reports indicating upwards of 700,000 casualties and a record high of 1,350 casualties per day in October.

Russia’s recent actions, including a large-scale missile strike against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure on November 17, have exacerbated the situation. This strike, which involved 120 missiles and 90 One Way Attack UAVs, resulted in the deaths of at least 10 civilians and widespread power outages, particularly concerning as Ukraine enters the winter season.

The UK and other international partners have reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, emphasizing the need for Russia to withdraw its forces from Ukraine’s internationally recognized sovereign territory to end the conflict. The ongoing war continues to pose a profound challenge to the international order and the UN Charter.