Russias ICBM Launch to Serve as a Tool of Intimidation, Warns Ukrainian Intelligence

Ukraine’s military intelligence agency announced on Sunday that Russia is expected to carry out a «training and combat» launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) aimed at intimidating Ukraine and Western nations.

In a statement shared on Telegram, Ukraine’s GUR intelligence agency reported that the missile launch is planned to take place overnight from the central Sverdlovsk region. It was noted that the missile’s range exceeds 10,000 kilometers (approximately 6,200 miles).

«The aggressor state of Russia plans to conduct a ‘training and combat’ launch of the RS-24 intercontinental ballistic missile from the Yars complex, intending to exert pressure and instill fear in Ukraine, as well as in EU and NATO member countries,» the GUR stated.

As of now, Russia has not responded to the claims made by Ukraine.

Moscow typically refrains from commenting on its plans for test launches of nuclear-capable missiles, considering such details a military secret, though it usually releases statements after such activities occur.

Over three years into Russia’s large-scale invasion, Ukraine is facing immense pressure as Russia aims for advances in Eastern Ukraine, and diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have yet to produce any tangible outcomes.