This move has posed a new challenge for Moscow, which had previously warned the West against such decisions, viewing it as an escalation of the conflict.
Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously stated that strikes on Russia using Western weapons would signify a "declaration of war" by NATO. However, following the initial uses of ATACMS missiles, Moscow has so far limited itself to statements and reflections on potential responses. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the use of this weapon as a "new level of tension."
Russian propagandists and mid-level politicians have started actively discussing possible responses from the Kremlin. In particular, television host Dmitry Kiselev threatened "any responses," including a nuclear strike, if the West continues its support for Ukraine.
Military expert Yan Matveev suggests that Ukrainian missiles may target bases and ammunition depots in Russia's Kursk region. However, effectively countering this weapon will require changes in the Russian air defense system, which could take several weeks, Matveev adds.
Interestingly, for Ukraine, the use of ATACMS opens up new opportunities in the war. These missiles can strike strategic targets up to 300 km away, allowing for increased pressure on Russian forces accumulating at the borders. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated in his address that such actions do not require public announcements: "The missiles will speak for themselves."
At the same time, the Kremlin exhibits uncertainty in its response to Biden's decision. Debates are taking place in Russian social media and opposition circles: some segments of the population expect a decisive response, while others prepare for more "expressions of concern."
Source: politico.