Putin Announces More Oreshnik Missile Tests Amid Ukraine Conflict

MOSCOW: In a significant development, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday that Russia will conduct more tests of the hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile under "combat conditions." This statement came just a day after the missile was fired at Ukraine, marking a notable escalation in the ongoing conflict. Putin emphasized the importance of these tests, stating, "We will continue these tests, including in combat conditions, depending on the situation and character of the security threats posted to Russia."

The Oreshnik missile, capable of flying at speeds of Mach 10—ten times the speed of sound—has been ordered by Putin to enter serial production. He remarked, "We need to begin serial production. The decision... has in effect been taken," highlighting the missile's "particular strength" and its role as a powerful weapon for Russia. According to Putin, this missile system serves as a "faithful guarantee of Russia's territorial integrity and sovereignty." He further claimed that no other country possesses such advanced missile technology, although he acknowledged that other nations would likely develop similar systems in the future.

This announcement comes at a time when the conflict in Ukraine has intensified. Putin indicated that the recent missile launch was a direct response to Ukrainian forces utilizing US- and UK-supplied missiles on Russian territory for the first time. In a previous address, he stated that Russia reserves the right to target military facilities in countries whose weapons are being used against it, specifically naming the United States and Britain.

In response to the heightened tensions, Ukraine's parliament has canceled its Friday session, citing the risk of a Russian missile attack on the Kyiv district where government buildings are located. Lawmakers expressed concern over the increased threat, with MP Yevgenia Kravchuk stating, "There are signals of an increased risk of attacks on the government district in the coming days." This cancellation follows the temporary closure of several foreign embassies, including the US representative office, due to the looming threat of a strike on Kyiv.

The situation remains precarious as both sides navigate the complexities of military engagement and international relations. As the conflict escalates, the implications of these missile tests and the ongoing military strategies will undoubtedly shape the future of not only Russia and Ukraine but also the broader geopolitical landscape. The world watches closely, as the actions taken in the coming days could have far-reaching consequences for global security and stability.