Ukrainian soldier shoots down Russian missile in first combat launch

A Ukrainian soldier, Natalia Hrabarchuk, successfully shot down a Russian cruise missile during her first combat launch on November 17. Hrabarchuk, a former kindergarten teacher, used an Igla MANPADS to intercept the missile amid a large-scale Russian attack involving drones and various missiles. President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-provided weapons for strikes on Russian territory. This marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, following months of Ukrainian requests for long-range strike capabilities. The decision comes amid concerns over North Korean soldiers being deployed by Russia. The Kremlin has warned that this U.S. decision could escalate tensions and deepen American involvement in the conflict. Russian officials and NATO members have expressed concerns that this development may lead to a broader conflict.