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Russia's new missile strike drew a firm response from NATO, in a significant escalation of the Ukraine conflict, Russia deployed an experimental intermediate-range ballistic missile against Ukraine on Thursday, prompting strong reactions from NATO and Western allies.
The missile, identified by Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) as likely a Kedr ("Cedar") system, demonstrated unprecedented capabilities, traveling at Mach 11 (13,583 km/h) and reaching its target in Dnipro within 15 minutes of launch from the Astrakhan region. HUR reports indicate the missile carried six warheads, each equipped with six submunitions.
Russian President Vladimir Putin framed the strike as a direct response to Ukraine's use of US and British-supplied long-range missiles. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that Moscow had informed Washington 30 minutes before the launch, stating the strike was meant as a warning to the West about their "reckless" support of Ukraine.
NATO remains undeterred. "Russia's use of an experimental intermediate-range ballistic missile against Ukraine will not change the course of the conflict," stated NATO spokeswoman Farah Dakhlallah. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz characterized the strike as a "dangerous escalation," while the UK and France reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine.
Former US Ambassador to NATO Ivo Daalder offered a critical perspective, suggesting Putin's actions stem from weakness rather than strength: "He's constantly trying to find new ways to scare the West into not taking the actions they need to take in order to defend Ukraine."
On the ground, Russian forces claim to have captured the frontline village of Novodmytrivka, approximately 10 kilometers north of Kurakhove in the Donetsk region, marking a strategic advance near the key logistical hub of Pokrovsk.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the missile strike "a clear and severe escalation" demanding international response. In response to the heightened tensions, NATO and Ukraine have scheduled emergency talks in Brussels next week.
As the conflict intensifies, China has urged all parties to "remain calm and exercise restraint," while the international community watches closely for signs of further escalation in this increasingly complex military and diplomatic standoff.
