The Kremlin launched a new intermediate-range ballistic missile at Ukraine on Thursday, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that this military action was a direct response to Ukraine’s recent use of American and British missiles, which can target deeper into Russian territory. In a televised address, Putin emphasized that the new missile, known as the Oreshnik, is capable of evading U.S. air defense systems and can strike any ally of Ukraine that collaborates in the conflict.
Putin mentioned that Russia has the right to retaliate against military targets in countries that enable attacks on its territory. This announcement followed an approval from President Joe Biden, allowing Ukraine to utilize U.S. ATACMS missiles against designated targets within Russia. According to Pentagon officials, the Oreshnik missile is a new type of experimental weapon derived from the RS-26 Rubezh intercontinental ballistic missile and is concerning due to its potential to carry either nuclear or conventional warheads.
The missile struck the city of Dnipro, hitting a missile factory, and was perceived as a reaction to recent Ukrainian strikes that targeted Russian military installations, resulting in casualties and damage in the Bryansk and Kursk regions. As tensions rise, Putin warned that any further aggressive actions would receive decisive responses.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the missile’s deployment as a serious escalation of hostilities and a violation of international law, urging global leaders to take a tougher stance against Moscow’s actions. He pointed out that a lack of strong international condemnation could embolden Russia to continue its aggressive tactics.
While experts note that modern intermediate and intercontinental ballistic missiles are difficult to intercept, some remain skeptical of Putin’s claims of their capabilities. The situation has further complicated with the recent authorization for Ukraine to use Western missiles, stirring fears of an escalating conflict.
Despite the perilous nature of current developments, analysts believe that the loosening of restrictions on Western arms could potentially make it harder for Russia to sustain its military logistics, representing a shift that might improve Ukraine’s position in the protracted conflict.
This latest escalation serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tension and the need for diplomatic solutions. The international community is closely watching these developments, as any further aggression might have far-reaching consequences. The hope remains that dialogue and concerted efforts toward peace will eventually prevail, despite the current atmospheric of hostility and risk.