Zelenskyy Condemns Russian Escalation as Severe
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned Russia’s use of an experimental ballistic missile in an attack on the city of Dnipro, calling it a “clear and severe escalation” in the ongoing war. He urged the international community to respond decisively, emphasizing that “pressure is needed” to force Russia into a genuine peace agreement.
NATO Accuses Russia of Intimidation Tactics
NATO spokesperson Farah Dakhlallah stated that the deployment of the new missile would neither alter the course of the war nor weaken NATO’s support for Ukraine. She accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of attempting to intimidate Ukraine’s allies and terrorize civilians.
Putin Threatens Further Strikes Against Western Allies
In a national address, Putin claimed Russia had the right to strike Western nations supplying weapons to Ukraine, labeling the conflict as having “global” dimensions. He unveiled the new intermediate-range ballistic missile, Oreshnik (the Hazel), as a response to US missile deployment plans in Europe.
Pentagon Confirms Experimental Missile Deployment
The US Department of Defense reported that the Oreshnik missile shares similarities with Russia’s RS-26 Rubezh ICBM. While currently armed with a conventional warhead, the Pentagon warned it could be modified for nuclear capabilities.
UN Calls for De-Escalation Amid Rising Tensions
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric described Russia’s missile use as “concerning and worrying,” urging all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure.
Ukraine’s Parliament Postpones Session Over Security Fears
Following the Dnipro strike, Ukraine’s parliament delayed its next session, citing potential security risks. Sources reported that legislators were advised to keep their families away from Kyiv’s government district.
Experts Warn of Broader Implications
Analysts suggest Russia’s missile development could prompt NATO countries to enhance air defense systems and reconsider offensive capabilities. Jeffrey Lewis, a non-proliferation expert, highlighted that Russia’s focus on intermediate-range missiles aligns with earlier warnings about US deployments in Europe.
Both Sides Escalate Ahead of US Presidential Transition
The attack comes as Ukraine intensifies strikes on Russian targets using US-made ATACMS and UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles. The escalation occurs amid uncertainty over how US President-elect Donald Trump, set to take office on January 20, will address the conflict.
Zelenskyy Warns Against Global Silence
Zelenskyy criticized the lack of a strong global response, stating that Putin is “testing the world” and that inaction risks normalizing Russian aggression. “He must be stopped,” the Ukrainian leader said, calling for tougher international measures.