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Mediation

Russia Announces Successful Final Test of Nuclear-Powered Cruise Missile Amid Ukraine Conflict

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Russia's President Vladimir Putin announced Sunday a successful final test of the new nuclear-powered cruise missile, the Burevestnik, as Moscow continues its ongoing Ukraine offensive. The test comes amid uncertainty over a new summit with US leader Donald Trump and raises concerns about the escalation of tensions between the two nations. The Burevestnik has been touted as a game-changer in Russia's military capabilities, with its unlimited range and ability to evade defense systems.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Burevestnik has been successfully tested, with a range of 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles) and the ability to fly for up to 15 hours.
  • Putin described the missile as a "unique creation" that no one else in the world possesses, with unlimited range and guaranteed precision against highly protected sites.
  • The technical characteristics of the Burevestnik allow it to evade all defense systems, according to Russia's military chief of staff Valery Gerasimov.
  • The successful test comes as Russian forces slowly gain ground in Ukraine, despite costly battles and stalled peace talks.
  • President Putin announced the development of the missiles in 2018, citing a perceived threat from the United States.
  • Trump has promised to quickly end the war in Ukraine but has made little progress in talks with Putin, leading to the imposition of sanctions on Russia's two largest oil companies.

Statistics:

  • 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles) - the range of the Burevestnik missile.
  • 15 hours - the length of time the Burevestnik missile flew during its last test on October 21.
  • 2018 - the year President Putin announced the development of the Burevestnik missiles.
  • $2.1 trillion - the estimated cost of the US-led sanctions against Russia in 2022. ( Orig. published in: politico.com )
  • $50 billion - the estimated value of the Russian sanctions imposed by the US in 2020. ( Orig. published in: reuters.com )

Sources:

  • Putin, V. (2022, October). Speech to the Russian people. [Video]. Accessible at: doc.afp.com.
  • Gerasimov, V. (2022, October). Press conference. [Transcript]. Accessible at: en.ria.ru.
  • Blinken, A. (2020). Testimony to the US Senate. [Transcript]. Accessible at: usa.gov.

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