The Russian Foreign Ministry summoned the American ambassador on Monday to protest what it says was the use of U.S.-made advanced missiles in a Ukrainian attack on Russian-annexed Crimea. The attack reportedly killed four people and wounded more than 150.
The ministry stated that Washington “has effectively become a party” to the conflict on Ukraine’s side. It warned of retaliatory measures to follow but did not provide further details. There has been no immediate comment from U.S. or Ukrainian officials regarding the allegations.
Ukraine has been relying heavily on Western-supplied weaponry since Russia’s invasion more than three years ago. This military aid has been crucial in enabling Ukraine to resist the Kremlin’s army, maintaining stability along the 1,000-kilometer front line in eastern and southern Ukraine.
Western countries have been cautious about providing more sophisticated help to Ukraine due to concerns about escalating tensions with Russia. However, recent developments have seen increased support granted to Ukraine’s military.
In a significant shift, the Pentagon announced last week that Ukraine’s military can now use longer-range missiles provided by the U.S. to target locations inside Russia in self-defense situations. Previously, the U.S. had refrained from allowing Ukraine to use such weapons against Russian soil to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
Russia, which annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, condemned the recent attack, claiming that U.S.-made ATACMS missiles were used. The Russian authorities reported casualties, including two children, from falling debris caused by Ukrainian missiles shot down over Sevastopol in Crimea. Cluster munitions were also allegedly deployed in the attack.
The Russian Defense Ministry retaliated by targeting a major logistical hub of the Ukrainian military, reportedly containing Western-supplied missiles and weapons. The strike involved warplanes, drones, ground-launched missiles, and artillery, although the specific location was not disclosed.
The situation remains tense as both sides exchange accusations and threats. The international community continues to monitor the conflict closely as tensions escalate in the region.
For more updates on the war in Ukraine, visit AP’s coverage.
