As tensions between Russia and Ukraine mount with growing Western involvement, President Vladimir Putin ominously warns of escalating conflict through potential missile strikes on Kyiv.
At a Glance
- Putin threatens to target Kyiv with the ‘Oreshnik’ missile if Western-backed strikes continue.
- The missile is said to have no global analogues, with capabilities likened to nuclear weapons.
- US and UK assess that the Oreshnik is nuclear-capable and could reach European targets.
- The international community fears further escalation in the region.
Russia’s Threat and Military Strategy
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent statement marks a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. He has warned that Russia’s new Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile could be used to strike “decision-making centres in Kyiv,” underscoring a potential shift in Moscow’s military approach.
According to Putin, if Western-backed strikes on Russian territories persist, confronting foreign-influenced military efforts could involve strategic targets in Kyiv. This statement reflects the Kremlin’s readiness to counter what it perceives as military provocations orchestrated by Western nations.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said his forces may use a new missile again after targeting Ukraine in retaliation for Kyiv’s use of American and British-made weapons on Russian territory this week https://t.co/gl2mimgbZb
— Bloomberg Politics (@bpolitics) November 22, 2024
Capabilities and Impact of the Oreshnik Missile
President Putin claims that the Oreshnik missile has no global equal, portraying it as capable of creating effects analogous to nuclear weapons. This assertion, however, is not universally accepted, as Western sources argue that such claims might be overstated. Nevertheless, the potential for increased destruction raises serious global concerns.
The Oreshnik boasts the capacity to target strategic sites with significant accuracy, achieving extreme temperatures on re-entry. It is reportedly nuclear-capable, with a range of up to 3,420 miles. While it can reach Europe, it falls short of hitting the United States, according to defense analyses by the US and UK.
❗️Kiev’s ‘Decision-Making Centres’ May Be Next ‘Oreshnik’ Missile Target – President Putin
Russia’s General Staff Ministry of Defense are currently selecting targets. The move comes after Kiev repeatedly attempted to attack targets in Moscow & St. Petersburg, he added. pic.twitter.com/FUAZhBxJ81
— RT_India (@RT_India_news) November 28, 2024
International Reactions and Escalation Risks
The international community is now on edge. Western nations, particularly the US and UK, have continued to support Ukraine by providing weaponry, despite Russia’s warnings about the risks of escalation. In this vein, Putin has noted that such engagements might lead to direct confrontations with Western allies.
Local Ukrainian sources report a significant number of people without power following recent Russian missile strikes. Nevertheless, Ukraine insisted it had intercepted all strikes aimed at its capital, Kyiv.
