Ukraine uses HIMARS rockets to target Russian base in first cross-border attack
- Ukraine conducted a cross-border attack into Russia using US-made HIMARS rockets.
- The target of the attack was Belgorod, a Russian base fueling attacks on northern Ukraine.
- This unprecedented move escalates tensions between Ukraine and Russia.
Russia's defense ministry and Russian military bloggers said that Ukraine fired long-range artillery called HIMARS at Russia on Saturday evening. They also claimed to have taken control of a village in eastern Ukraine and are moving forward in all tactical directions. The defense ministry mentioned discussing strengthening Ukraine's air defense system and the F-16 coalition with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. A 24-year-old Ukrainian policewoman was mistreated by Russian forces while being held captive for two years. She was released and reunited with her family. The defense ministry of Russia stated that they have captured a village in eastern Ukraine and are progressing in various tactical directions. Shutdowns were implemented in most regions of Ukraine after a drone and missile attack on energy targets injured at least 19 people. Ukraine's air defense systems successfully destroyed 24 out of 25 attack drones launched by Russia. The assault on Ukraine by Russian forces has resumed after more than two years since the invasion began. President Zelensky mentioned that Russia is trying to disrupt the upcoming summit in Switzerland using Chinese influence and diplomats. Recent Russian attacks near the Ukrainian border influenced President Biden's decision. Ukrainian forces targeted the Russian city of Belgorod with HIMARS launchers, causing air-raid sirens and missile launches. The raid aimed to disrupt Russian military operations near the border. Ukrainian reinforcements have successfully halted the Russian advance, causing significant casualties among Russian troops. Ukrainian forces can now use American deep-strike munitions to strike Belgorod.