Russian “Oreshnik” Missile Strikes Dnipro at Over 13,000 Kph, Escalating Tensions with NATO
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed the deployment of a new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile, the “Oreshnik,” in a strike on Ukraine’s military facility in Dnipro. The missile, launched from Russia’s Astrakhan region, reportedly traveled at a peak speed of over 13,000 kph (8,000 mph), reaching its target in approximately 15 minutes, according to Ukrainian intelligence.
🚀 5 minutes to Kiev, 17 to Paris.
“Russia will use medium- and short-range missiles depending on the actions of the U.S. and their satellites, targeting those countries whose missiles strike Russia,” Vladimir Putin stated yesterday.
“If anyone doubts that Russia is ready for… pic.twitter.com/fatVpsWd8z
— Zlatti71 (@Zlatti_71) November 22, 2024
The attack comes as the war nears its third anniversary, with Ukraine ramping up its counteroffensive efforts using longer-range missiles supplied by Western allies. Putin described the missile strike as a direct warning to the West against continued support for Ukraine’s military operations.
Missile Details: Speed and Impact
Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR) provided a detailed assessment of the missile, stating that it was equipped with six warheads, each containing six submunitions. The missile’s speed exceeded Mach 11 during its final trajectory, showcasing Russia’s advanced capabilities in hypersonic weaponry.
Oreshnik IRBM: Russia’s Hypersonic Threat
⚡ Speed: Up to 12,250 km/h. Hits UK in 19 mins, Germany in 11.
🎯 Range: 5,000 km, 150-kiloton payload, 3-6 guided warheads.
🚀 Tech: Solid-fuel missile, unparalleled accuracy.#Oreshnik #HypersonicMissile #Russia #MilitaryTechnology… pic.twitter.com/MGMDyQt0uE
— X Headlines (@XHeadlinec) November 22, 2024
HUR also speculated that the missile might be part of the Kedr missile complex, closely linked to the Oreshnik system. The Kedr missile was reportedly first tested in June 2021, and according to Ukrainian intelligence official Vadym Skibitsky, Russia could have at least 10 more such missiles under testing before moving toward mass production.
Global Reaction: NATO to Hold Emergency Meeting
The missile strike has drawn widespread international attention, with Ukraine urging swift global condemnation. Kyiv initially suggested the weapon might have been an intercontinental ballistic missile, but U.S. and NATO sources confirmed it as an intermediate-range ballistic missile, aligning with Putin’s description.
NATO has announced an emergency meeting with Ukraine to be held at its Brussels headquarters on Tuesday. The discussion will focus on Moscow’s use of advanced weaponry and the implications for regional and global security.
Rising Tensions Amid Escalating Warfare
The strike underscores the intensifying conflict as Ukraine continues its counteroffensive efforts inside Russian territory. The use of the Oreshnik missile highlights Moscow’s intent to demonstrate military superiority and send a stark message to NATO and other Western allies supplying Ukraine with advanced weaponry.
This attack marks a critical juncture in the conflict, emphasizing the growing role of hypersonic missiles in modern warfare. Analysts suggest that such deployments not only alter the battlefield dynamics but also escalate the risks of a broader international confrontation.
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