(DDM) – Russia has confirmed that it launched a nuclear-capable missile at Ukraine during a major overnight barrage, marking a dangerous escalation in the nearly three-year-old conflict and raising fresh global security concerns.
The Russian Ministry of Defence disclosed on Friday that the strike involved the Oreshnik missile system, a weapon capable of carrying nuclear payloads, though officials did not indicate whether any nuclear warhead was involved.
According to information cited by Reuters, Moscow said the missile attack was carried out in retaliation for an alleged Ukrainian strike on one of President Vladimir Putin’s residences in December.
Russian authorities described the operation as a calculated response meant to send a strong warning signal to Kyiv and its Western allies.
The announcement has triggered anxiety among international observers, given the explicit reference to a nuclear-capable delivery system.
Although Russia has previously showcased its strategic weapons, direct confirmation of using such a missile in active combat is considered highly provocative.
Ukrainian officials have not independently confirmed Russia’s claim regarding the alleged December attack on a presidential residence.
Kyiv has, however, acknowledged intensified Russian missile and drone assaults targeting multiple regions overnight.
Residents in several Ukrainian cities reported explosions, air raid sirens, and power disruptions as air defence systems attempted to intercept incoming missiles.
Military analysts noted that the Oreshnik missile represents one of Russia’s newer generation strategic weapons.
They warned that its use, even in a conventional configuration, carries heavy symbolic and psychological implications.
Since the start of the war in February 2022, Russia has repeatedly issued nuclear-related warnings, especially during moments of battlefield pressure.
Western governments have consistently condemned such rhetoric, accusing Moscow of weaponising fear to deter further support for Ukraine.
The latest development comes amid growing Ukrainian long-range strike capabilities, partly boosted by Western-supplied weapons and intelligence.
Russia has accused Ukraine of expanding attacks deep into Russian territory, including military installations and symbolic targets.
Moscow claims these actions justify stronger retaliatory measures under what it calls its national defence doctrine.
Global markets reacted cautiously to the news, with energy prices showing signs of volatility due to fears of wider escalation.
Diplomatic sources said the use of a nuclear-capable missile, even without a nuclear payload, complicates ongoing international mediation efforts.
The United Nations and several European governments urged restraint and called for immediate de-escalation.
Security experts stressed that while the missile’s deployment does not automatically indicate nuclear intent, it dangerously lowers the threshold for further escalation.
They warned that miscalculation on either side could have catastrophic consequences beyond Ukraine’s borders.
Russia maintains that its actions are defensive and necessary to protect national sovereignty.
Ukraine, on the other hand, insists it is exercising its right to self-defence against continued Russian aggression.
The conflict has already resulted in massive civilian casualties, widespread destruction, and the displacement of millions.
As both sides harden their positions, fears are growing that the war is entering a more unpredictable and perilous phase.
Observers say the deliberate reference to nuclear-capable weapons reflects a shift toward psychological warfare aimed at both Ukraine and the West.
For many analysts, the incident underscores how fragile global security has become amid prolonged geopolitical confrontations.
With diplomatic channels strained and military actions intensifying, the world watches closely, wary that the conflict may yet cross even more dangerous red lines.
