Russia’s new Oreshnik missile strikes Ukraine, prompting NATO emergency talks and raising fears of escalation in Eastern Europe.
At a Glance
- Russia launched an experimental “Oreshnik” hypersonic missile attack on Ukraine
- The missile can carry multiple warheads and reach speeds of Mach 11
- NATO and Ukraine to hold emergency talks following the strike
- The attack is seen as a potential deterrent against NATO supplying long-range missiles to Ukraine
- Experts warn of increased tensions and potential for conflict escalation
Russia Unveils New Hypersonic Threat
In a stunning display of military might, Russia has launched an experimental missile attack on Ukraine using a new prototype weapon named “Oreshnik.” This non-nuclear hypersonic ballistic missile, designed to penetrate air defense systems, has sent shockwaves through NATO and raised alarm bells across Eastern Europe. The missile reportedly launched 36 separate munitions, striking targets in Dnipro, Ukraine, with uncertainty about whether it used a MIRV or MRV system.
The Oreshnik missile, based on the RS-26 Rubezh ICBM, was launched from Russia’s Astrakhan region and reached speeds of Mach 11. President Vladimir Putin has boldly claimed that no other country possesses such advanced weaponry. This brazen act of aggression has not only demonstrated Russia’s evolving military capabilities but also sent a clear message to NATO and its allies.
Russia’s Knight Move: The Oreshnik Missile and the New Rules of Global Deterrence
Continuing the discussion of Vladimir Putin’s geopolitical strategy, the debut of the Oreshnik missile marks a calculated escalation that combines advanced technology with strategic timing. This… pic.twitter.com/IuJTdyHc1e
— Lee Stranahan (@stranahan) November 23, 2024
NATO’s Emergency Response
In the wake of this alarming development, NATO and Ukraine have scheduled emergency talks to address the Russian attack on Dnipro. The conflict is rapidly escalating, with Poland’s Prime Minister describing it as entering a “decisive phase.” This sudden escalation has forced NATO to reassess its strategic calculations and support structure for Ukraine.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the incident as moving the conflict in Ukraine to a “decisive phase,” adding that the war is “taking on very dramatic dimensions.”
The Czech Foreign Minister has condemned the missile strike as an escalation and supported additional air defense for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s parliament canceled a session due to the threat of further missile attacks, underscoring the gravity of the situation. As tensions rise, the international community watches closely to see how NATO will respond to this new threat.
Russia’s Strategic Shift
The deployment of the Oreshnik missile is not just a tactical move but a significant shift in Russia’s strategic doctrine. This new policy allows for the use of nuclear weapons against nuclear powers supplying arms for major attacks on Russia. It’s a clear warning to NATO countries considering increased military support for Ukraine.
Interestingly, Russia notified the U.S. in advance of the attack, and neither country has adjusted its nuclear posture. This suggests that while Russia is flexing its military muscle, it’s also carefully managing the risk of direct confrontation with NATO. The limited number of these missiles available for regular deployment indicates that this strike was more symbolic than tactical, designed to send a message rather than change the battlefield dynamics.
The Oreshnik missile’s capabilities are truly alarming, too.
The rocket can be fitted with nuclear or conventional warheads and is capable of reaching targets across Europe. This development has concerned several Eastern European governments, many of which are already on high alert due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The attack targeted the Pivdenmash plant in Dnipro, a key military and humanitarian hub. While no fatalities were reported in Dnipro, Russia also struck Sumy with drones, resulting in casualties. These strikes demonstrate Russia’s willingness to escalate the conflict and its ability to strike strategic targets deep within Ukrainian territory.
