The Kremlin has issued a stern warning to Western countries after launching a newly developed hypersonic missile at Ukraine. The missile strike, which targeted a Ukrainian military facility, is seen as a clear message from Moscow that it will retaliate against what it calls “reckless” actions by Western nations supporting Ukraine.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the missile, named Oreshnik, was used to show Russia’s readiness to respond to what it sees as an escalating threat from the West. This follows increased military aid from the U.S. and other NATO members to Ukraine, including advanced missile systems capable of striking deep inside Russian territory.
“The message is clear: Russia will respond to the reckless decisions of Western nations that arm Ukraine and then participate in attacks on Russian territory,” Peskov said. He stressed that Russia’s actions were a direct response to Western support for Ukraine, which Moscow views as a provocation.
President Vladimir Putin also weighed in, confirming that the missile was a new hypersonic weapon capable of carrying nuclear warheads. “This missile is part of our latest developments and has been tested in the context of ongoing military operations,” Putin said, highlighting its advanced capabilities and long-range targeting potential.
The missile strike marks an important escalation in the war, as Russia typically reserves the use of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) for nuclear deterrence. However, in this case, Russia used the ICBM during a large-scale missile attack on Dnipropetrovsk in Ukraine on November 21. This is the first time such a missile has been used in the ongoing conflict, further raising tensions in the region.
Peskov revealed that Russia had notified the United States 30 minutes before launching the missile, although it was not required to do so. This advance notice is seen as a move to avoid direct confrontation, but it also highlights Russia’s growing frustration with the West’s involvement in the war.
As the war continues into its third year, Russia has made it clear that it will not back down and will continue to escalate if necessary. The Kremlin has repeatedly warned that it will take action against any country that supplies Ukraine with weapons or engages in military actions against Russian territory.
The situation in Ukraine remains tense, and the international community is closely watching how these recent developments will impact the balance of power in the region.
