Ukraine blames Russia of increasing the war by using an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The attack targeted Dnipro at night. If confirmed, it would be the first combat use of such a missile.
Ukrainian officials said the missile came from Astrakhan in southern Russia. They claimed its speed and altitude matched an ICBM. Investigations are ongoing. Western officials disputed the claim. They stated it was a ballistic missile but not intercontinental.
The attack injured two people in Dnipro and 15 in Kryvyi Rih. Ukrainian forces intercepted six out of seven cruise missiles. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also condemned the strike. He accused Russia of using Ukraine as a weapons testing ground.
The incident followed Ukraine’s use of U.S. and British-supplied long-range missiles. These strikes hit Russian territory. Moscow had warned of severe retaliation. Analysts believe Russia’s alleged ICBM use may be symbolic. They noted the missile’s high cost and low accuracy in conventional warfare.
President Vladimir Putin recently updated Russia’s nuclear doctrine. He expanded the conditions for nuclear weapon use. Experts doubt the likelihood of nuclear escalation. They believe Moscow wants to avoid alienating allies like China. Worsening diplomatic ties with the West could also harm Russia.
The war has now lasted over 1,000 days. Tensions also remain high. The missile’s nature and implications are still under review. Both sides brace for the next developments. (Courtesy NBC News).
