Russia Fires New Missile at Dnipro
Russia launched a hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile at Ukraine’s Dnipro city on Thursday, marking an escalation in the ongoing 33-month war. The missile, referred to as “Oreshnik” (the hazel), was fired in response to Ukraine’s recent use of Western-made weapons to strike Russian territory. Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed the missile strike on a Ukrainian military facility and warned that more such attacks could follow. He stated that civilians would be warned in advance of future missile strikes.
Escalation in the Conflict
Putin described the missile launch as a direct response to Ukraine’s recent strikes using U.S.-made ATACMS, British Storm Shadow missiles, and U.S.-made HIMARS. These actions were approved by President Joe Biden’s administration and marked a shift in the war’s dynamics. Putin emphasized that these actions have turned what was previously a regional conflict into a war with global implications.
Global Reactions and Zelenskiy’s Response
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the use of the new missile, calling it a “clear and severe escalation” in the conflict. He urged the international community to strongly condemn Russia’s actions. Despite the call for condemnation, Zelenskiy expressed frustration over the lack of strong global responses, suggesting that this silence could signal that Russia’s behavior is being accepted.
Russia Briefs the U.S. Before Launch
A U.S. official confirmed that Russia briefed Washington prior to the missile strike. U.S. and NATO officials identified the missile as an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), with a range of 3,000–5,500 km (1,860-3,415 miles). Although Ukraine initially believed the missile was an ICBM, officials clarified that it was an IRBM, a weapon with a much shorter range.
Missile Characteristics and Strategic Significance
The missile’s use raised concerns due to its MIRVed (multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle) payload, which is typically associated with nuclear-capable weapons. Military experts noted that Russia likely chose this missile for signaling purposes. This new weapon adds to Russia’s arsenal, which already includes Kinzhal hypersonic missiles and Kh-101 cruise missiles.
Impact on Dnipro and Ukraine’s Defense Industry
The missile attack caused damage to Dnipro’s industrial infrastructure, a city that was historically a missile manufacturing hub during the Soviet era. The air force reported that six of the seven Kh-101 cruise missiles launched were shot down, while the rest targeted critical infrastructure in Dnipro. Two people were reported injured due to the attack.
Tensions and Military Movements
In addition to the missile strike, regional tensions have risen as Ukraine continues to use Western weapons to strike Russian territory. This week, Ukraine fired British Storm Shadow missiles into Russia’s Kursk region, prompting Russia’s defense ministry to report the interception of some of the missiles. These military exchanges reflect the ongoing volatility as both sides strengthen their positions.
Geopolitical Implications and the Role of North Korean Troops
The timing of the missile launch comes just months before the end of Biden’s term, with President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House expected in early 2025. Sources close to the situation suggest that the deployment of North Korean troops to assist Russia played a significant role in Biden’s decision to approve the missile strikes. Trump has criticized the ongoing support for Ukraine and suggested that he would push for peace talks once in office, making the current period crucial for both sides to gain leverage ahead of potential negotiations.
