Ukraine has accused Russia of using an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in an attack on the city of Dnipro. While the Ukrainian Air Force did not specify the type of ICBM, Western officials questioned the claim, suggesting it was a ballistic missile but not an ICBM.
Photos of missile debris were shared by Ukrainian security sources, but it remains unclear if all fragments belong to a single weapon. CNN is seeking expert analysis to verify the missile type. If confirmed, this would mark the first use of such a weapon by Russia in over 1,000 days of war.
Ukraine Strikes Back with Advanced Missiles
In response, Ukraine reportedly used British-French-made Storm Shadow missiles to target sites within Russia for the first time. This follows Ukraine’s recent deployment of US-made longer-range missiles, marking a significant escalation in its counterattacks.
UK Warns of Worsening Frontlines
The UK’s Defense Intelligence agency has warned that Ukraine’s frontlines are now more unstable than at any point since Russia’s full-scale invasion began. According to a recent update, Russia’s territorial advances have accelerated, aided by its willingness to accept heavy casualties and a larger troop presence than Ukraine can muster.
“The frontline is now less stable than at any point since the opening stages of the conflict,” the intelligence report stated.
US Approves Anti-Personnel Mines
In a bid to support Ukraine’s defenses, the Biden administration has approved the deployment of anti-personnel mines to counter Russia’s evolving tactics. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin explained that Russian forces are increasingly using dismounted troops to pave the way for mechanized units, necessitating tools to slow their advances.
“Ukraine’s military needs things that can help slow down that effort,” Austin said, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing battlefield dynamics.
Bottom Line
As the war enters a new phase of intensity, both Russia and Ukraine are escalating their strategies. With unstable frontlines, advanced weaponry in play, and new tactics emerging, the conflict shows no sign of resolution.
