Putin Warns West After Deploying New Missile in Ukraine Strike
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the deployment of a new intermediate-range missile, dubbed “Oreshnik,” during an attack on Ukraine’s Dnipro early Thursday morning. Putin framed the strike as a direct response to Ukraine’s use of advanced US and UK-supplied long-range missiles targeting Russian territory.
In a televised address, Putin threatened to retaliate against nations enabling Ukraine’s missile capabilities, specifically naming the US and UK. This marks a sharp escalation as both countries recently authorized the use of powerful Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) and Storm Shadow missiles in Ukraine’s counteroffensive.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the missile strike, calling it a dangerous escalation. “This is more evidence that Russia has no interest in peace,” he posted on X, formerly Twitter. “Putin’s actions mock global efforts to end this war.”
Questions Around Oreshnik Missile Capabilities
While Putin boasted about Oreshnik’s capabilities, calling it “unstoppable,” Western analysts remain skeptical. Initial reports suggested the missile may have characteristics of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), but US officials described it as an experimental medium-range ballistic missile. The Pentagon confirmed prior notice of the launch through Nuclear Risk Reduction channels, emphasizing that Russia’s arsenal of such missiles is likely limited.
Matthew Savill, a military expert at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), noted the missile’s symbolic significance rather than strategic value. “This reminds the world of Russia’s diverse and potentially growing missile arsenal,” Savill said. Intermediate-range ballistic missiles typically have ranges between 3,000 and 5,500 km, a step up from the 500 km range of Iskander missiles previously used by Russia.
Putin claimed the missile struck its target at speeds exceeding 10 Mach, or roughly 3 km per second, and emphasized it as a demonstration of Russia’s military readiness. “If anyone doubts our capabilities, they shouldn’t,” he warned.
A War Entering Dangerous New Territory
The Ukraine conflict, now in its 1,000th day, is entering a volatile phase. Following Ukraine’s recent strikes in Russia’s Bryansk region with ATACMS, Putin has adopted a more confrontational stance. Russia’s latest military moves include intensified missile attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure and fresh ground offensives in the east.
Adding to the tension, Putin has eased the conditions for deploying nuclear weapons under Russia’s revised doctrine, raising fears of further escalation.
Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to grapple with dual challenges: Russia’s aggression and political shifts abroad. US President Joe Biden’s decision to authorize ATACMS and supply anti-personnel landmines reflects Washington’s commitment, but it comes amid uncertainty as Donald Trump prepares to assume the US presidency in two months. Trump has pledged to end US involvement in foreign wars and claimed he could resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict within 24 hours—without specifying his strategy.
A Growing Global Divide
Putin’s actions underscore the widening gulf between Russia and the West. With North Korean troops reportedly assisting Russia’s efforts to reclaim territory in the Kursk region, Moscow is doubling down on its partnerships while rebuffing Western overtures for peace.
As the war escalates, the world watches anxiously. With the introduction of new weapons, revised strategies, and a shift in global leadership dynamics, the path to peace seems more uncertain than ever.
