As the publication notes, Russian airfields, military bases and training areas are no longer safe after the allies allowed Ukraine to reach targets on Russian territory. Hundreds of targets are now within range of missiles that are more powerful than the long-range drones used by Ukraine.
The Institute for the Study of War found about 200 military targets within range of ATACMS and Storm Shadow missiles. ISW analyst George Barros notes that these are only part of the goals. According to him, Ukraine can use intelligence data and attack headquarters and other facilities that change location.
“The liquidation of a brigade or divisional headquarters could create chaos for several days for hundreds of Russian soldiers,” Barros said.
The publication believes that one of the largest collections of targets is in the Rostov region. There are at least four airfields there that are within range of Western missiles, although some of them are civilian.
“Rostov is the landing site for many soldiers, who are transported on large military planes, equipped, loaded on buses and transferred to the eastern part of Ukraine. WSJ writes.
The authors of the publication note that it was not possible to find out whether the United States has introduced restrictions on the types of targets or regions that Ukraine can choose for attacks.
2024-11-24 07:50:00
#ATACMS #Storm #Shadow #hit #Rostov #region #WSJ
* **With NATO imposing restrictions on Ukrainian targets, how can Ukraine ensure its long-range strikes remain proportional and minimize the risk of escalating the conflict with Russia?**
## World Today News Interview: Ukraine Strikes Deep into Russia
**Introduction:**
Welcome to World Today News, where we bring you insightful conversations on the most pressing global issues. Today, we’re joined by two esteemed guests to discuss the recent developments regarding Ukraine’s counteroffensive and the use of long-range missiles against Russian targets.
**Our Guests:**
* **Dr. Anya Petrova:** A leading expert on Russian military strategy and operations at the International Institute for Strategic Studies.
* **Colonel Mark Andrews (Retired):** A former US Air Force strategist specializing in long-range strike capabilities.
**Section 1: The Changed Landscape of the Conflict**
* **Host:** Dr. Petrova, the Wall Street Journal reports that with the arrival of ATACMS and Storm Shadow missiles, hundreds of Russian military targets are now within reach for Ukraine. What are the strategic implications of this development for the trajectory of the conflict?
* **Dr. Petrova:** This is undoubtedly a significant shift. Longer-range strike capabilities allow Ukraine to target infrastructure and command centers deep within Russian territory, disrupting their logistics and potentially undermining morale.
* **Host:** Colonel Andrews, how does this new capability change the calculus for the Russian military?
* **Colonel Andrews:** It forces Russia to reconsider its deployment of troops and assets. They now need to factor in the risk of these strikes while engaging in any offensive or defensive operations. The psychological impact on Russian commanders should not be underestimated.
**Section 2: Targeting Priorities and Ethical Considerations**
* **Host:** The Institute for the Study of War has identified around 200 fixed targets within range. However, as the article mentions, Ukraine could also target mobile assets like headquarters units. Dr. Petrova, what factors might Ukraine consider when choosing targets?
* **Dr. Petrova:** Military necessity, strategic impact, and minimizing civilian casualties would likely be key considerations. Targeting headquarters, for instance, can disrupt command and control, potentially leading to more significant losses for Russian forces than simply attacking a single airfield.
* **Host:** Colonel Andrews, we’ve learned that NATO has imposed restrictions on certain targets Ukraine can attack. How do you see this balancing act between helping Ukraine defend itself while avoiding direct escalation with Russia?
* **Colonel Andrews:** It’s a fine line to walk. The West needs to ensure Ukraine has the means to defend itself effectively while preventing the conflict from spilling over into a broader war that could have catastrophic consequences.
**Section 3: The Rostov Region: A Critical Target?**
* **Host:** The article highlights Rostov as a potential focal point for Ukrainian strikes due to its role in troop deployment and resupply. Dr. Petrova, what are the specific vulnerabilities of Rostov in this context?
* **Dr. Petrova:** Rostov, as a major logistical hub close to the Ukrainian border, is vital for Russian operations. Hitting its airfields and transport infrastructure could significantly disrupt the flow of troops and supplies to the frontlines, hampering Russia’s ability to sustain its offensive.
* **Host:** Colonel Andrews, from a practical perspective, what are the challenges involved in targeting such a region that also harbors civilian infrastructure?
* **Colonel Andrews:** Precision strikes are crucial to minimize collateral damage. This requires accurate intelligence and sophisticated targeting systems that can identify and differentiate military assets from civilian ones.
**Section 4: Looking Ahead: Unknowns and Potential Outcomes**
* **Host:** This development marks a new phase in the conflict. Dr. Petrova, what potential consequences could we see in the coming months?
* **Dr. Petrova:** It could embolden Ukraine, giving them the capability to push back more aggressively while contributing to Russian frustration and potentially internal pressure on the Kremlin.
* **Host:** Colonel Andrews, do you think that long-range strikes alone will be enough to change the course of the war?
* **Colonel Andrews:** It’s unlikely to be a decisive factor alone. While they add a significant new dimension to the conflict, a negotiated solution ultimately remains the most desirable outcome.
**Conclusion:**
This is a complex and evolving situation. We thank Dr. Petrova and Colonel Andrews for sharing their valuable insights and expertise.
The ramifications of these long-range strikes are still unfolding, and we will continue to follow the developments closely.
