Russia has intensified its missile offensive by launching the new medium-range Oreshnik missile, striking the Ukrainian city of Dnipro. This missile, capable of carrying nuclear warheads, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, although President Putin assured that nuclear warheads were not used in this instance. The attack targeted the Yuzhmash factory, a notable defense company, as a retaliatory response to Ukraine's deployment of Western-supplied long-range missiles like the ATACMS and Storm Shadow.
The launch of the Oreshnik missile has heightened tensions between Russia and the West. President Zelenskyy of Ukraine has called for an international response, framing the attack as a deliberate escalation. NATO has responded by convening an emergency meeting with Ukrainian authorities to discuss the implications of this new missile deployment.
Furthermore, Russia's updated nuclear doctrine, which allows for nuclear retaliation against non-nuclear states backed by nuclear powers, has sparked global apprehension. This doctrine suggests a potential shift in Russia's stance on nuclear engagement, raising fears of a broader conflict.
The discovery of missile debris in Dnipro has led to skepticism about the missile's novelty, with some reports suggesting it could be a modification of an older intercontinental ballistic missile. Despite this, the Kremlin maintains that the Oreshnik is a new addition to Russia's arsenal, intended to intimidate Ukraine's allies.
In the international arena, there are growing calls for a robust response to prevent further escalation. As the world watches nervously, the potential for a diplomatic or military resolution remains uncertain. The conflict in Ukraine, now involving advanced missile technology, continues to pose a significant threat to global stability.
