On Thursday, the Kremlin launched a new intermediate-range ballistic missile, named the Oreshnik, towards Ukraine. This act is seen as a direct retaliation to Ukraine’s recent use of American and British missiles that target deeper into Russian territory. During a televised address, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the missile’s capabilities, claiming it travels at ten times the speed of sound and could potentially target not only Ukraine but also its allies that permit missile strikes on Russian soil.
Putin highlighted Russia’s right to defend itself, particularly after the U.S. recently allowed Ukraine to utilize ATACMS missiles. The U.S. Pentagon confirmed that the missile released is an experimental, lethal type derived from Russia’s RS-26 Rubezh intercontinental ballistic missile, and it could carry either conventional or nuclear warheads.
Following the missile launch, which struck an industrial facility in Dnipro, Putin claimed it was in response to Ukrainian strikes that had caused damage in southern Russia. President Biden’s administration received a prior notification about the missile launch through nuclear risk reduction channels. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the missile strike as a significant escalation of the conflict, urging the international community to respond decisively to deter further aggression.
Military analysts remarked on the implications of this missile’s deployment, suggesting it serves as both a tactical strike and a strategic signal to the West regarding Russia’s capabilities and intentions. Despite the worries raised by the missile’s potential, analysts noted that the loosening of restrictions on Ukraine’s missile use could put Russian forces at greater risk in the ongoing conflict.
This development marks a critical juncture in the war, emphasizing the ongoing tensions and risks involving nuclear ramifications. While the situation is dire, it also presents an opportunity for the international community to reassess their commitments to support Ukraine, potentially paving the way for a renewed focus on diplomatic solutions to ensure stability and peace in the region.
Overall, the unfolding events in Ukraine underscore the necessity for continued international scrutiny and engagement to mitigate the humanitarian and geopolitical crises further.