Ukraine’s military intelligence agency reported on Sunday that Russia is preparing to conduct a “training and combat” launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in an apparent move to intimidate Ukraine, NATO, and EU countries.
According to the GUR (Ukraine’s military intelligence), the missile launch is scheduled to take place from the Sverdlovsk region in Russia. The missile, part of the RS-24 Yars system, is expected to have a range of over 10,000 kilometers (6,200 miles).
“This launch is intended to demonstrate force and pressure Ukraine, as well as EU and NATO member states,” the GUR said in a statement posted on Telegram.
Russia has not issued any comment on this claim. It traditionally keeps details of such missile tests classified as military secrets and typically only releases information after a launch occurs.
The report comes as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues into its fourth year, with Russia pushing for gains in eastern Ukraine. Diplomatic efforts to end the conflict remain stalled.
