Russia launches ICBM at Ukraine; military response noted

Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from the Astrakhan region during an early morning attack targeting Dnipro.

This marks the first time an ICBM has been used in the conflict. These missiles can travel thousands of kilometres.

In response, Ukraine’s military claimed to have shot down six Kh-101 cruise missiles during the assault.

This development follows recent approval from Washington for Ukraine to utilise longer-range missiles, including ATACMS, which Ukraine reportedly employed to strike Russian military installations earlier in the week.

Precautionary measures

Poland also took precautionary measures by deploying its fighter jets and NATO aircraft to guard its airspace amid concerns about Russian strikes on Ukraine.

The Polish Armed Forces Operational Command confirmed that their fighter pairs were scrambled and that air defense and radar reconnaissance systems were put on high alert.

Poland has frequently scrambled its aircraft during Russian strikes on Ukraine throughout the duration of the war.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov did not provide comments regarding the reported ICBM launch aimed at Ukraine this morning.

The Russian Defence Ministry has also not issued any statements concerning the missile launch.