Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russia tested a new intermediate-range missile aimed at Ukraine, stating that the U.S. air defense systems would be powerless against it. This declaration follows Ukraine’s recent use of long-range U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles to strike targets inside Russia.
During a televised address, Putin claimed that the deployment of these missiles would add “fuel to the fire” and escalate tensions, particularly as North Korean troops are reportedly being sent to support Russia’s military efforts.
The missile fired by Russia on this occasion purportedly struck a military facility in Dnipro. In response to the ongoing conflict, Ukraine’s military has launched a series of strikes, hitting Russian supply lines and positions in the eastern region.
U.S. officials confirmed that Ukraine had fired ATACMS missiles, allowing them for the first time to target Russian positions, a significant shift in policy that might alter the dynamics of the ongoing war.
Putin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, condemned the U.S. decision, insisting that it could lead to further escalation in the conflict. U.S. Department of Defense officials recognized the gravity of Russia’s new missile capabilities while maintaining that the response to the war would be firm and clear.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remarked that the ability to strike deeper would potentially shorten the duration of the war. Amid criticisms of the war and calls for stronger military backing, Zelenskyy noted the risks of a hasty resolution that could compromise Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
The geopolitical climate continues to fluctuate, especially following Trump’s election, which has introduced uncertainty regarding future U.S. support. As the situation evolves, both sides remain poised for strategic maneuvering on the battlefield, while analysts warn against the repercussions of any declared changes in military posture.
With Russia’s military advances and Ukraine’s attempts to reinforce its defenses, the conflict appears poised for further escalation. Russian officials assert that any use of advanced weaponry by Ukraine could lead to severe consequences, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic channels to restore stability.
Credit: ABC News
