NATO and Ukraine are preparing for emergency talks on Tuesday following Russia’s deployment of a hypersonic ballistic missile in an attack on the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro. The missile strike, described as an alarming escalation in the conflict, targeted a military facility and has drawn widespread international condemnation.
The missile, identified as the Oreshnik, reached speeds of Mach 11 and carried multiple conventional warheads capable of significant destruction. Ukrainian military officials reported that it was launched from the Kapustin Yar test range in Russia and struck Dnipro after a 15-minute flight.
Russian President Vladimir Putin justified the attack as retaliation for Ukraine’s use of U.S. and British-supplied longer-range missiles that have been striking targets deeper inside Russian territory. Speaking to military officials, Putin claimed the missile renders Western air defense systems ineffective and emphasized its destructive capability, stating, “Massive use of this weapon with conventional warheads could rival the impact of nuclear strikes.”
The strike has raised concerns across Europe and beyond, with Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk describing the conflict as entering “a decisive phase” with “very dramatic dimensions.” Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský condemned the missile’s use as an “escalatory step” and pledged his country’s continued support for Ukraine’s air defense systems.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, often seen as sympathetic to Moscow, warned against underestimating Russia’s responses, hinting at potential Western involvement in guiding advanced weaponry used by Ukraine.
The missile targeted the Pivdenmash plant, a former Soviet ICBM production site now repurposed for military logistics and aid. Although no casualties were reported, the attack heightened security concerns across Ukraine, with Kyiv’s parliament canceling a planned session amid fears of further strikes.
In Sumy, Russian drones targeted a residential area overnight, killing two people and injuring 13. Ukrainian officials reported that the drones were loaded with shrapnel, aiming to maximize human casualties.
The Oreshnik missile, described as an experimental weapon, represents a new phase in Russia’s military capabilities. Testing and production are ongoing, with Putin hinting at its continued use in combat scenarios depending on Russia’s perceived security threats.
Ukraine and NATO are expected to discuss countermeasures and the broader implications of Russia’s advanced missile technology during their upcoming talks. With tensions escalating, the West faces mounting pressure to provide Ukraine with enhanced defense systems to counter the growing threat.