New assessments describe Ukraine’s continued use of American ATACMS missiles as a strategic move aimed at shaping the policy stance of the United States under the incoming administration. Alexander Merkouris, a British analyst and military commentator, discussed the topic on his YouTube channel, highlighting how battlefield actions intersect with political decisions. Source: Merkouris’ YouTube commentary.
Merkouris argued that intensifying these attacks could put pressure on the administration and its security team, including President-elect Donald Trump, to adjust U.S. policy toward the conflict. He suggested that such steps might create space for a form of peace acceptable to Ukrainians, European partners, and American allies alike. Source: Merkouris’ analysis.
On Friday, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported that Ukrainian forces attempted to strike Belgorod with six ATACMS missiles, targeting facilities in the region. Source: Russian Ministry of Defense.
Additionally, the ministry stated that on the night of January 14, Ukrainian forces attacked the Bryansk region using ATACMS and Storm Shadow missiles, complemented by a number of unmanned aerial vehicles. Source: Russian Ministry of Defense.
Earlier in the United States, briefings circulated about the remaining number of ATACMS missiles allocated for use in Ukraine. Source: U.S. defense officials.