Ukraine Uses British Storm Shadow Missiles to Strike Russian Targets, Including Putin-Linked Estate

The Krakow Post

In a significant escalation of its counteroffensive, Ukraine deployed British-provided Storm Shadow missiles for the first time to strike Russian military sites, including a location linked to President Vladimir Putin. The attack targeted areas in Russia’s Kursk region, with reports suggesting the focus may have been a command post associated with Russian and North Korean military leadership.

The strike occurred near the Baryatinsky estate, a resort managed by the Russian President’s Affairs Administration. Unverified reports suggest the attack may have targeted a military communications hub or command facility within the estate’s eastern sector. The site is believed to play a role in coordinating Russian military operations.

The UK supplied Ukraine with long-range Storm Shadow missiles in 2023, which have been adapted for use with Ukrainian Su-24M aircraft. Initially, Ukraine was restricted from using these missiles to strike targets within Russia. However, recent policy shifts by the UK, France, and the United States have granted Ukraine permission to deploy them deeper into Russian territory.

The strike in Kursk signals a new phase in Ukraine’s military campaign, showcasing its ability to hit strategic targets well inside Russia. By employing advanced Western weapons like the Storm Shadow, Ukraine appears to be broadening the scope and intensity of its operations, potentially disrupting Russian military command and control structures.

This attack carries significant ramifications for the ongoing conflict. It underscores Ukraine’s growing capabilities and willingness to strike far beyond its borders, which could compel Russia to enhance its air defence systems and bolster security around key sites. The use of sophisticated Western weaponry highlights the deepening international support for Ukraine’s counteroffensive efforts.

The UK has remained tight-lipped about the operation, with Downing Street, the Ministry of Defence, and the Foreign Office declining to comment, citing operational reasons.

Amid the heightened tensions, the US embassy in Kyiv temporarily closed due to potential Russian air attacks. The embassy suspended operations on Wednesday as a precaution but reopened on Thursday. Several other embassies, including those of Italy, Spain, and Greece, also closed temporarily.

This latest strike demonstrates Ukraine’s resolve and capacity to take the fight deep into Russian territory. As Western-supplied weapons become more integral to Ukraine’s strategy, the conflict’s dynamics may shift further, with both sides recalibrating their approaches in response to the evolving battlefield.