Following US authorization, Ukraine reportedly launched US-supplied Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles into Russia’s Bryansk region. Russia claims to have intercepted five of eight missiles, while US officials suggest a higher number were intercepted. This attack prompted strong condemnation from Russia, accusing the US of escalating the conflict and implying direct American involvement. The incident coincided with Russia’s announcement of revised nuclear doctrine, expanding conditions for nuclear weapon use, further raising international tensions.
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A Ukrainian defense source confirmed the first use of ATACMS missiles to strike a military facility near Karachev, Bryansk Oblast, Russia. The targeted ammunition depot, previously attacked in October, reportedly contained artillery shells, including North Korean munitions. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported the strike, though without specifying the weaponry used, and emphasized the continuation of such actions to disrupt Russian aggression. While the US has not officially confirmed authorization, reports suggest approval for limited ATACMS strikes against Russian territory was given.
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Reports indicate that President Biden authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles within Russia, prompting concerns and potential evacuation plans in bordering Russian regions. While U.S. officials downplay the impact on the war’s overall trajectory, this move significantly boosts Ukraine’s capabilities, especially with France and the U.K. also authorizing long-range missile use. Russian officials express varying levels of concern, with some emphasizing air defense capabilities and others preparing for potential strikes on military and industrial targets. The authorization, long sought by Ukraine, follows reports of North Korean troop deployments in Russia, further escalating tensions.
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President Biden authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-provided ATACMS long-range missiles, marking a significant policy shift allowing strikes within Russia, specifically targeting areas like Kursk. This decision, following months of Ukrainian requests, enables strikes on Russian weapons stockpiles and logistical hubs to hinder military advances. While the number of ATACMS is limited and the impact may not be decisive, the authorization also potentially opens the door for similar use of British Storm Shadow missiles. The move comes amidst escalating conflict and large-scale Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.
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Russia launched a massive nationwide missile attack targeting Ukraine’s energy grid, a brutal escalation of the ongoing conflict. This attack comes at a time when the political landscape in the United States is shifting, raising serious concerns about the future of Western support for Ukraine. The timing suggests a calculated attempt to cripple Ukraine’s infrastructure before a potential change in US policy towards the conflict.
The sheer scale of the attack points to a deliberate strategy to inflict maximum damage on civilian life and essential services. Winter is approaching, making this assault even more devastating as Ukrainians will face freezing temperatures without adequate power and heating.… Continue reading
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Russia’s economy is facing a severe financial crunch due to the Central Bank’s aggressive rate-hiking cycle, driven by soaring inflation and a weakened ruble. This has resulted in a surge in corporate debt with floating interest rates, pushing many companies toward a dangerous debt spiral with interest payments consuming a significant portion of their earnings. The situation is exacerbated by the war in Ukraine, making it unlikely for the Central Bank to switch to easing monetary policy anytime soon. This financial strain is pushing companies towards bankruptcy, particularly in sectors like retail, construction, and manufacturing, with widespread signs of distress emerging in corporate bonds and loan markets. The situation presents a significant risk to the Russian economy, with a potential housing crisis looming as well.
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On November 11th, Ukraine reported a record high of 1,770 Russian casualties in a single day, surpassing the previous record of 1,740 set on May 13th. This brings the total number of Russian casualties to 710,660, according to Ukraine’s General Staff. While the Kremlin remains silent on troop losses, Western officials have confirmed October as the deadliest month for Russian forces, with estimates ranging from 1,354 to 1,500 casualties per day. Despite suffering record losses, Russian forces have made significant territorial gains in eastern Ukraine, particularly in Donetsk Oblast, putting pressure on Ukrainian defenses and prompting concerns about a potential escalation.
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Recent estimates from British officials indicate that Russian forces suffered an average of 1,500 casualties per day in October, marking the highest monthly figure since the war began. This surge in losses, which may be contributing to Russia’s deployment of North Korean troops, has resulted in significant territorial gains for Russia, particularly in southern Donetsk Oblast. Despite these setbacks for Ukraine, our unwavering support for Kyiv will continue “as long as it takes,” ensuring their ability to defend their territory and achieve victory.
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Mediazona, a Russian independent media outlet, and BBC Russia have identified the names of 77,143 Russian soldiers killed since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, based on publicly available information. This figure is likely a significant undercount, as it only reflects verified data from sources such as obituaries and official reports. The casualties have increased substantially in recent months, with October marking the deadliest month for Russian forces. The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia may be linked to these losses, with President Zelensky confirming their presence and casualties in Kursk Oblast. The average age of volunteer recruits killed in action is increasing, with a plurality falling between 48 and 50 years old. The bloodiest day for Russian forces was May 13th, with an estimated 1,740 casualties.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood