Ukraine has accused Russia of launching an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) as part of an overnight attack, the first use of such a weapon during the conflict. However, a Western official disputed this, stating it was a ballistic missile but not an ICBM that was fired. The Kremlin did not immediately respond to the accusation, and the missile type used is still being assessed. The Ukrainian air force claimed the alleged ICBM was launched from southern Russia at the city of Dnipro, but did not provide details on casualties or the specific missile model. Ukraine also reported multiple missile attacks on Dnipro, including an air-launched ballistic missile and cruise missiles, with some being intercepted.
This alleged ICBM deployment comes after Ukrainian forces used long-range U.S. ATACMS missiles to strike Russian soil, prompting Moscow to warn of a significant response. The escalation in the over 1,000-day war follows President Putin’s revision of Russia’s nuclear doctrine, allowing for a nuclear strike in response to an attack by a nonnuclear country supported by a nuclear state. The use of an ICBM in the conflict raises concerns due to their long range and ability to carry both nuclear and non-nuclear payloads. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in military actions and threat.
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