Ukraine’s recent air strikes inside Russia, including attacks on critical infrastructure, are causing setbacks for President Putin’s attempts to reassure Russians of a normal life amid the ongoing war. The attacks have raised the visibility of the conflict and challenged the Kremlin’s control of the political scene. The strikes in Belgorod, particularly the December 30 attack that resulted in casualties, mark a significant escalation. The article discusses the implications of Ukraine’s long-range strike capability and the potential for further escalation.