Russia Threatens to Use New Hypersonic Missile Against Ukrainian Capital

Astana Press Conference Highlights Escalating Conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened to use the country’s new Oreshnik hypersonic missile against the Ukrainian capital Kyiv in response to Ukraine’s strikes on Russian territory. The warning comes a week after Russia used the experimental weapon for the first time against the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, marking a significant escalation of the almost three-year war.

Putin’s Threats

During a press conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, Putin stated that Russia does not rule out the use of the Oreshnik missile against military, military-industrial facilities, or decision-making centers, including in Kyiv. He also accused Ukrainian authorities of attempting to strike at Russia’s vital facilities, including in St Petersburg and Moscow.

Hypersonic Missile Capabilities

The Oreshnik missile is an intermediate-range ballistic missile that can travel at a speed of Mach 10, or up to 3,000 kilometers per second. According to Moscow, the weapon has the destructive power of a meteorite, with a kinetic impact that is powerful like a meteorite falling.

Nuclear Capabilities

While Putin stated that the Oreshnik missile is not currently equipped with a nuclear device, he emphasized that the weapon is “comparable in strength to a nuclear strike” when used several times at once. This highlights the significant threat posed by the hypersonic missile and the potential for devastating consequences if used in a large-scale attack.

Context and Implications

The threat to use the Oreshnik missile against Kyiv marks a significant escalation of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The war has been ongoing for almost three years, with both sides trading blows and neither side showing signs of giving in.

The use of a hypersonic missile would be a game-changer in the conflict, as it would allow Russia to strike targets with unprecedented speed and accuracy. The potential consequences of such an attack are dire, and could lead to widespread destruction and loss of life.

Conclusion

The threat to use the Oreshnik hypersonic missile against Kyiv is a clear indication of the escalating nature of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The use of such a weapon would have significant consequences, and it is essential that all parties involved take steps to de-escalate the situation and avoid further violence.

FAQs

Q: What is the Oreshnik hypersonic missile?
A: The Oreshnik is an intermediate-range ballistic missile developed by Russia that can travel at a speed of Mach 10.

Q: What is the purpose of the Oreshnik missile?
A: The Oreshnik missile is designed for military use and can be used to strike targets with high precision and speed.

Q: Has the Oreshnik missile been used in combat before?
A: Yes, Russia used the Oreshnik missile for the first time against the Ukrainian city of Dnipro a week ago.

Q: Is the Oreshnik missile equipped with a nuclear device?
A: No, the Oreshnik missile is not currently equipped with a nuclear device. However, Putin stated that the weapon is “comparable in strength to a nuclear strike” when used several times at once.