The remains of a car that exploded in Sevastopol, killing a Russian naval officer, have sparked tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Vladimir Putin claimed that Russia used a new hypersonic medium-range ballistic missile to attack a Ukrainian military facility, as a warning to Western nations arming Kyiv. Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, accused Russia of using his country as a missile testing ground.
In response to the missile strike, the United States was pre-notified by Russia through nuclear risk reduction channels. The US is aware of Russia’s launch of an intermediate-range ballistic missile at Ukraine and had briefed Ukraine and allies to help them prepare. The UK condemned Russia’s “reckless” behavior and admitted that Russia has been planning to use a new intercontinental ballistic missile for months.
As tensions escalate, Europe is preparing for a potential Third World War, with countries like Poland and the Baltic States investing in defense systems. Ukraine uses a Patriot missile defense system to intercept incoming ballistic missile warheads. Amidst fears of escalation, the West is downplaying the use of intercontinental ballistic missiles in the conflict.
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