For the first time since the start of the invasion of Ukraine, Russia has reportedly used an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) to attack the city of Dnipro. This weapon, a symbol of nuclear deterrence, marks a new stage in the intensity of the conflict.
A new missile: a threat that changes scale
The Ukrainian Air Force says an intercontinental missile was launched on the morning of November 21, 2024 from Astrakhan, southern Russia. With a range exceeding 5,500 kilometers according to the international classification, these weapons are mainly designed to carry nuclear charges. However, in this specific case, the machine would have been equipped with a conventional warhead. This attack, if confirmed, would constitute a great first in the conflict with this type of missile. The Ukrainian army also said it had shot down six Kh-101 cruise missiles fired by Russia during the attack on Dnipro.
The choice of Dnipro as a target does not seem trivial. Located in east-central Ukraine, this strategic city concentrates essential infrastructure. Although the extent of the damage remains unclear, videos relayed on social networks show massive impacts, compatible with this type of weaponry. “If it is confirmed, it is symbolically very strong. Never seen before »comments a connoisseur of the file.
A new indirect response in the United States?
This escalation comes days after Ukraine obtained the green light from the United States to use ATACMS ballistic missiles on Russian soil. This prompted Moscow to respond dramatically. Russian nuclear doctrine, revised on November 19, 2024 by Vladimir Putin, states that Russia could resort to nuclear weapons in the face of an existential threat. Although this ICBM launch is non-nuclear, it revives concerns about a potential nuclear escalation.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin remains silent, with its spokesman Dmitry Peskov simply stating: “ We do not comment on these accusations ».
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