US Officials Dispute Ukraine’s ICBM Claim
The United States has expressed doubt over Ukraine’s claim that Russia used an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in Dnipro. Ukraine had suggested the missile’s speed and altitude indicated it was an ICBM. US officials, however, have rejected this theory and identified the missile as a medium-range ballistic missile. These officials voiced their skepticism in conversations with multiple media outlets.
Ballistic Missile Confusion: What’s the Truth?
A US official anonymously told CBS News that the missile used in Dnipro was an experimental medium-range missile, not an ICBM. The official explained that this missile type is far more common in Russia’s arsenal than specialized ICBMs. ICBMs, they added, are typically reserved for strategic nuclear deterrence, not for regular missile attacks. Other sources have suggested the weapon might be an intermediate-range missile, with a range of 3,000 to 5,500 km.
Ukraine’s Response to the Dispute
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the missile fired at Dnipro showed all the hallmarks of an ICBM. He claimed it was the first instance of such a missile being used in the conflict. Despite US officials’ doubts, Ukraine insists the missile was a long-range ICBM, though further expert analysis is needed to confirm its type. Ukraine acknowledges the need for expert analysis to determine the precise type of missile used in the Dnipro attack. Zelensky’s statement included a warning that the attack indicated Russia’s willingness to escalate the war to new levels.
The Strategic Importance of the Missile’s Identity
The debate over the missile’s origin is not merely academic. The type of missile used could significantly impact the future course of the war. If it were confirmed to be an ICBM, it would represent a dramatic escalation, marking the first time in the ongoing conflict that Russia has deployed such a powerful weapon. An ICBM’s ability to carry nuclear warheads makes its use in a conventional strike a highly provocative act that would likely trigger strong reactions from the international community.
Russia’s Silence Amidst the Controversy
Russia has stayed silent about the missile used in the Dnipro attack, offering no comment on Ukraine’s ICBM claims. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed it intercepted and destroyed two Storm Shadow missiles supplied by the UK. Russia’s refusal to confirm or deny the ICBM use leaves the international community guessing about Russia’s intentions. The international community is left guessing about the true nature of the missile strike due to Russia’s lack of confirmation.
International Concerns and Escalation Fears
Ukraine and its Western allies are monitoring the situation closely, as ICBM use could signal a major conflict shift. The European Union expressed concern, stating that deploying such a weapon would be a “clear escalation.” The distinction between missile ranges could have significant diplomatic and military consequences as the war continues to evolve. Experts warn that further missile attacks may widen the war’s scope beyond Ukraine’s borders, escalating the conflict.
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