Putin Vows Continued Testing of Experimental Missile Amid Ukraine Outcry
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced plans to intensify strikes utilizing an experimental intermediate-range ballistic missile, prompting a furious response from Ukraine, which characterized the missile tests on its territory as international crimes. Speaking at a defense conference, Putin countered U.S. assertions that Russia had only a limited quantity of these high-speed ballistic missiles, asserting that the military is well-equipped to continue testing them in combat conditions.
Putin congratulated military personnel on the successful tests of the missile system, emphasizing that further testing would occur depending on the evolving situations and threats faced by Russia. He stated, 'We have enough of such systems ready for use in stock.'
Amidst these declarations, Russian strategic missile forces commander Sergei Karakayev noted the weapon's capacity to strike targets across Europe, highlighting its unique capabilities compared to other long-range precision-guided munitions. He pointed out, 'Depending on the objectives and the range of this weapon, it can strike targets on the entire territory of Europe.'
The missile, described by U.S. officials as a modified version of Russia's long-range RS-26 Rubezh intercontinental ballistic missile, was allegedly used in an attack on a rocket factory in Dnipro, Ukraine. Analysts have reported that both Putin and U.S. officials acknowledge the missile's potential to carry a nuclear warhead. While U.S. officials condemned the use of such a weapon, they also played down its significance, claiming Russia possesses only a small number of the missiles, referring to them as Oreshnik or Hazel.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy labeled the use of the experimental missile in attacks on Ukraine as an international crime. In a social media address, he called upon countries worldwide, particularly in the global south, to denounce Russia's latest aggressive actions. Zelenskyy instructed his defense minister to consult with allies regarding new air defense systems to safeguard against the emerging threat posed by these intermediate-range missiles.
Zelenskyy stated, 'Using another country not just for terror but also to test new weapons for terror is clearly an international crime.'
NATO and Ukrainian officials are poised to engage in emergency talks to address these developments. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk remarked that the conflict is entering a crucial phase, describing its escalation as dramatic. In response to heightened security concerns following the Russian strike on military facilities in Dnipro, Ukraine's parliament postponed a session.
In addition to rallying support from Western partners, Zelenskyy has implored China and other nations in the global south to condemn Russia's aggressive maneuvers, voicing a sentiment of frustration as he noted that peaceful calls from various leaders often lead to further escalation by Moscow.
In a parallel diplomatic effort, China and Brazil have floated a joint peace plan, which Ukraine argues merely strengthens Russia's position by providing it with diplomatic cover amidst ongoing hostilities.
Related Sources: