Russia Deploys New Type of Non-Nuclear ICBM in Ukraine: A Major Escalation in the Conflict
On November 21, 2024, Russia reportedly launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, marking the first use of such a weapon in conventional warfare. Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, confirmed that the missile matched the characteristics of an ICBM, specifically citing speed and altitude. This was accompanied by other attacks, including hypersonic Kinzhal missiles and cruise missiles, although the latter were intercepted by Ukrainian air defenses.
The missile was allegedly launched from Astrakhan, Russia, near the Caspian Sea. While Russian authorities have not commented, experts suggest the weapon could be a conventional variant of the RS-26 Sarmat. This unprecedented deployment comes amid heightened tensions, following Ukraine’s use of U.S.-supplied Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to strike Russian targets earlier in the week.
The escalation has raised global concerns, particularly regarding Russia’s recent adjustments to its nuclear doctrine. The revised policy permits nuclear retaliation against non-nuclear states supported by nuclear powers, signaling broader threats to NATO allies. This shift has heightened fears of miscalculation and expanded the conflict’s international dimensions.
Western leaders are closely monitoring the situation, as Russia’s use of advanced conventional weapons introduces new risks of escalation. This development underscores the fragile state of international security, with experts warning of potential broader ramifications if similar weapons are deployed again.
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/21/world/europe/russia-ballistic-missile-ukraine-war.html
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