Ukraine’s precision strikes with ATACMS and Storm Shadow expose Russia’s bluff

The author of the Resurgam Telegram channel discussed the issue.

Over the past days, three significant events occurred: Ukraine's ATACMS strikes in Bryansk, Storm Shadow strikes in the Kursk region, and Russia's launch of an intercontinental missile. These developments highlight Kyiv’s precision attacks and Moscow's reliance on strategic military maneuvers and information warfare.

ATACMS strikes in Bryansk 

The use of ATACMS was likely supported by an information campaign aimed at downplaying U.S. intelligence leaks and obscuring the operation's details. Western media initially reported the approval for ATACMS use as limited to the Kursk region, but discrepancies in timing and reporting suggest broader permissions were granted earlier. The swift execution, within 24 hours of the announcement, indicates pre-existing clearance and preparation.

Storm Shadow in the Kursk region

This marked another effective information operation. Unlike ATACMS, Storm Shadow approvals were concealed until after deployment, showcasing a calculated approach. The preparation involved indicates the decision was made earlier, as such strikes require significant logistical planning.

Moscow's response

Facing increased Ukrainian capabilities and broader Western support, Moscow's responses have been reactive, aiming to limit escalation through threats and propaganda:

1. Terrorizing civilian infrastructure: Targeting residential areas to shift blame onto Western decisions, leveraging propaganda to exploit weak information defenses in the West.  

2. Threats against NATO: Empty claims of striking NATO bases in Poland, aimed at stirring fear and misinformation through coordinated media efforts.  

3. Intercontinental missile launch: A symbolic yet impractical action, as such missiles are designed for nuclear payloads and are excessively costly compared to alternative weapons. This move underscores Moscow's desperation and serves as part of a broader disinformation campaign.

Objective of Moscow's actions

Russia seeks to restrict Ukraine’s access to advanced weaponry through psychological and informational tactics, as it cannot prevent such approvals outright.

Ukraine’s strategic goals

Ukraine must sustain targeted strikes to demonstrate to Western audiences that Moscow's escalation threats are at their peak and largely posturing. This strategy undermines Russian bluffs while maintaining pressure on the battlefield.