Russia has tested a new experimental hypersonic missile, named “Oreshnik” (Hazel), during a strike on a Ukrainian military-industrial facility, marking an escalation in the ongoing conflict. The missile, described as medium-range and non-nuclear, was deployed in response to Ukraine’s use of US and British long-range weapons, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced in a televised address on Thursday.
Key Highlights of the Strike and Announcement
- Hypersonic Missile Test:
- The Oreshnik missile was tested under combat conditions during a strike targeting Ukrainian military infrastructure.
- It features nuclear-free hypersonic capabilities, adding to Russia’s arsenal of advanced weaponry.
- This test was part of a broader combined strike, which included the deployment of Kinzhal hypersonic missiles and Kh-101 cruise missiles.
- Strategic Context:
- The strike follows Ukraine’s recent deployment of US ATACMS missiles and British Storm Shadow missiles against Russian targets, which Russia claims escalates the conflict.
- Putin declared Russia’s right to target nations supplying weapons to Ukraine, though he stated civilians would be given advance notice to evacuate before any such strikes.
- Escalation of Nuclear Criteria:
- Putin signaled a potential broadening of nuclear response criteria, indicating that significant conventional attacks could now elicit a nuclear response.
- Impact of the Strike:
- In Dnipro, an industrial facility was damaged, fires broke out, and two people were injured.
- Ukrainian air defenses reportedly intercepted six Kh-101 missiles, while others caused significant infrastructure damage.
- Ukrainian forces and officials have called for an international response, labeling Russia’s use of new weapons as a concerning escalation.
- Geopolitical Implications:
- Russia directly acknowledged British involvement in the conflict, accusing Ukraine of using Storm Shadow cruise missiles to strike Russia’s Kursk region.
- Ukraine’s deployment of long-range Western-supplied missiles has drawn sharp criticism from Russia, further straining ties between Moscow and Western capitals.
Statements from Leaders and Observers
- Putin emphasized that while Russia prefers peaceful resolutions, it remains prepared for “any development of events,” warning that US air defenses would struggle to counter Russian missiles.
- Ukraine has urged the international community to respond swiftly to Russia’s deployment of new hypersonic weaponry, describing it as a dangerous precedent.
What This Means
The testing of the Oreshnik missile during active combat represents a significant escalation in military tactics by Russia. With tensions mounting due to Ukraine’s increasing use of advanced Western weapons, this development risks further destabilizing the already volatile situation. As both sides continue leveraging high-tech military capabilities, the potential for broader international involvement grows.
