U.S. authorizes Ukraine to use ATACMS missiles as Russia escalates nuclear rhetoric
The U.S. has authorized Ukraine to use ATACMS missiles to strike inside Russia, marking a significant shift in military support. This decision comes as Ukraine faces pressure from advancing Russian forces and aims to disrupt enemy operations deep within Russian territory. In response, the Kremlin has expressed outrage, claiming the U.S. is escalating tensions and directly involving NATO in the conflict. Russia's new nuclear doctrine lowers the threshold for nuclear response, suggesting any aggression supported by a nuclear power could trigger a severe reaction. Despite the heightened rhetoric, Ukraine has been conducting strikes on Russian territory since 2022. The Kremlin's threats appear aimed at rallying domestic support rather than indicating a genuine intent to escalate to nuclear conflict.