Putin's Announcement on New Russian Missile Use

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday that Russia may use its newly developed missile again after its deployment in a recent attack on Ukraine. This announcement comes amidst escalating tensions as Kyiv utilizes American and British-made weapons to strike targets on Russian soil.

On Thursday, Russia launched its "Oreshnik" missile on the city of Dnipro, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. Putin, in a meeting with Defense Ministry officials and weapons manufacturers, praised the missile's performance during what he described as a "successful test." The president also revealed plans to begin serial production of the missile, emphasizing its strategic importance.

"We will continue these tests, including in combat conditions, depending on the situation and the nature of the security threat created for Russia," Putin stated during a televised address. The Russian leader highlighted the missile's capability to strike targets across Europe, surpassing some longer-range precision weapons in effectiveness.

Sergey Karakaev, commander of Russia's Strategic Missile Forces, described the missile as a groundbreaking addition to Russia's arsenal, offering increased precision and range. Defense Minister Andrey Belousov, who also attended the meeting, endorsed the missile's potential to reshape Russia's defense strategy.

The deployment of the Oreshnik missile follows a series of Western escalations, including U.S. President Joe Biden's decision to permit Ukraine to use American ATACMS missiles for operations against Russia. Additionally, Ukraine has employed UK-made Storm Shadow missiles in its ongoing counteroffensive.

In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for heightened international support to counter the new risks posed by Russia's advanced weaponry. On Friday, Zelenskyy revealed that his defense minister was engaging with Western partners to secure air-defense systems, including the U.S.-made Patriot batteries, which have proven crucial in shielding Ukrainian territory from missile attacks.

The international community remains deeply concerned about the rising intensity of the conflict, which has seen both sides intensify their use of advanced military technologies. Analysts suggest that Putin's statements are aimed at showcasing Russia's military strength while pressuring Western nations to reconsider their support for Ukraine.

As the war enters another critical phase, the use of advanced missiles like the Oreshnik underscores the growing complexity of the conflict and the broader geopolitical tensions between Russia and the West.