Ukraine Accuses Russia of Deploying Nuclear-Capable Ballistic Missile Potential Escalation in Ongoing Conflict

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Ukrainian military officials reported that Russia launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) as part of a barrage targeting the central city of Dnipro. Local authorities confirmed that an infrastructure facility was struck, resulting in injuries to two civilians. However, Ukrainian allies have yet to verify these initial assessments.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov refrained from commenting on the use of the missile when questioned, leaving the situation unclear. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that experts are currently examining evidence to confirm whether an ICBM was indeed fired by "our crazy neighbour." He emphasized that the attack exhibited "all the characteristics" of an ICBM strike and accused the Kremlin of using Ukraine as a "testing ground."

International Reactions

Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Georgiy Tykhy indicated that analysts were preparing their expert conclusions, asserting that the attack bore "all flight characteristics of an ICBM." He condemned the strike, stating, "Russia does not seek peace. To the contrary, it makes every effort to expand the war."

In contrast, a U.S. official downplayed the significance of the attack, asserting that it was not an ICBM but rather an "experimental" medium-range ballistic missile. The official suggested that Russia might be attempting to intimidate Ukraine and its allies but emphasized that such a missile would not be a game changer in the conflict.

The U.S. official noted that Russia likely possesses only a limited number of these experimental missiles and highlighted Ukraine's resilience against various attacks, including those from missiles with significantly larger warheads.

Continued Support for Ukraine

The United States has briefed Ukraine and its allies about the potential use of this weapon in recent days. Earlier this year, President Joe Biden announced plans to provide Ukraine with hundreds of Patriot and AMRAAM missiles to bolster its air defenses.

"The United States will continue to surge security assistance to Ukraine to strengthen capabilities, including air defense, and put Ukraine in the best possible position on the battlefield," the official stated.

Kremlin's Response

When asked about the alleged ICBM launch, Peskov stated he had "nothing to say on this topic." However, he reiterated that the Kremlin is committed to avoiding a nuclear conflict, referencing updates to Russia's nuclear doctrine made earlier this week. "We have stressed that Russia is taking a responsible position to make maximum effort not to allow such a conflict," Peskov added.

In a notable moment during a live press briefing, Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman received a call instructing her not to comment on the reports of the ballistic strike, as captured on video.