Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the use of a new conventional intermediate-range missile, codenamed Oreshnik, in an attack on the eastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro. Putin claimed the missile launch was a direct response to the United States and United Kingdom’s recent authorization of long-range weaponry for Ukraine to strike targets inside Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the missile attack as a “clear and severe escalation” of the war, stating that Putin is prolonging the conflict and showing no interest in peace. Zelensky initially suggested the missile had characteristics of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), though Western officials disputed this claim.
The US National Security Council described the weapon as an “experimental medium-range ballistic missile,” suggesting Russia likely possesses only a few of these weapons and they would not significantly alter the war’s dynamics. The Pentagon’s deputy press secretary, Sabrina Singh, confirmed that the US was briefly notified of the missile launch through Nuclear Risk Reduction channels.
Putin emphasized the missile’s capabilities, claiming it attacks targets at a speed of 10 Mach (2.5-3 km/s) and is impossible to counteract. He warned the West that Russia is prepared for any developments and will always respond to provocations.
Military experts like Matthew Savill from Rusi noted that the missile appears to have a longer range than previous Iskander missiles, potentially falling into the intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) category with ranges between 3,000 and 5,500 km. Savill suggested the missile’s use is more symbolically significant, serving as a reminder of Russia’s extensive missile arsenal.
The missile launch comes as the Ukraine conflict enters its 1,000th day. Recent escalations include the US authorizing Ukraine to use ATACMS to strike inside Russia, and the UK supplying Storm Shadow missiles. These moves were reportedly in response to Russia’s deployment of North Korean troops and preparations for an offensive in the Kursk region.
The geopolitical landscape is further complicated by the potential return of Donald Trump to the US presidency. Trump has promised to end US involvement in wars and claims he could resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict within 24 hours, though he has not provided specific details.
Putin has simultaneously increased tensions by loosening nuclear weapon usage conditions and intensifying air strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure. Russian ground forces continue to advance in eastern Ukraine.
The ongoing conflict remains volatile, with both sides escalating military actions and rhetoric. The introduction of new missile technologies and changing geopolitical dynamics suggest the war is entering a potentially more dangerous phase, with significant implications for international relations and regional stability.
