Putin says Russia will use new missile again in ‘combat conditions’
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the country is ready to deploy its new Oreshnik missile in real combat scenarios. This statement came on Friday, just a day after Russia launched the missile at the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
In an unscheduled television address, Putin emphasized the missile’s advanced capabilities, claiming it is impossible to intercept and can travel at 10 times the speed of sound. He described the missile test as a response to Ukraine’s use of long-range Storm Shadow and Atacms missiles provided by the US and UK. Putin also ordered the mass production of the Oreshnik, suggesting it will play a critical role in Russia’s military strategy moving forward.
Thursday’s attack on Dnipro was described by eyewitnesses as unusual and devastating. Ukrainian officials stated that the missile’s impact resembled that of an intercontinental ballistic missile, triggering explosions that lasted for hours. Justin Crump, CEO of the risk advisory firm Sibylline, noted the missile’s advanced speed and precision could pose significant challenges to Ukraine’s air defenses.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to the strike by urging world leaders to deliver a serious response to Russia’s actions. He called for modern air defense systems to counter the growing missile threat. Zelensky specifically mentioned Kyiv’s request for the US-made THAAD system or upgrades to its existing Patriot missile defenses.
The escalation has drawn international condemnation and heightened fears of a broader conflict. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned that the war is entering a decisive stage with potential global ramifications. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban advised Western nations to take Putin’s threats seriously, noting Russia’s reliance on military power to dictate its policies.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un also weighed in, claiming the threat of nuclear war has never been greater. North Korea has supported Russia in the conflict by sending troops, and reports from Ukraine suggest clashes with these forces in Russia’s Kursk region. US President Joe Biden has allowed Ukraine to use longer-range missiles to target Russian territories, partially in response to North Korea’s involvement.
The missile strike comes as both sides prepare for a critical phase in the conflict. With former US President Donald Trump set to return to office in January, both Ukraine and Russia are attempting to secure strategic advantages. Trump has promised to end the war quickly but has not provided specific details on his approach.
Zelensky also criticized China for its neutral stance following Russia’s missile test. China’s foreign ministry urged all parties to exercise restraint, but Zelensky dismissed this as inadequate. He called Russia’s actions a mockery of states that promote diplomacy over military solutions.
Domestically, Zelensky reprimanded the Ukrainian parliament for postponing a session on Friday, citing security concerns after the Dnipro attack. In a statement on Telegram, he urged lawmakers to continue working unless air raid sirens are active, emphasizing the importance of resilience in wartime.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022, has caused widespread devastation and remains one of the most volatile conflicts of the 21st century. With new weapons and international alliances adding complexity, the war shows no signs of resolution, raising the stakes for all involved.
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