Ukraine Displays Wreckage of New Russian Missile

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — In a recent development in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Ukrainian Security Service has unveiled the remnants of a new experimental Russian ballistic missile to the Associated Press. The missile, which struck a factory in Dnipro, remains under analysis according to unnamed security officials present at an undisclosed location in Ukraine.

The experimental missile, identified as «Oreshnik» or «hazel tree» in Russian, reportedly shares technological roots with the Russian RS-26 Rubezh intercontinental ballistic missile, as stated by the Pentagon. As of now, the specific characteristics and capabilities of this missile remain unverified, pending further examination.

Photographic evidence and video footage, captured by journalists including AP photographer Evgeniy Maloletka, depict fragments of the missile at a forensic analysis center in a secretive location within Ukraine. These visuals have highlighted the severity of the missile’s impact in Dnipro, which occurred on November 21, 2024.

Oleh, an expert associated with Ukraine’s Security Service who provided limited commentary due to authorization constraints, noted that this incident marks the first discovery of Oreshnik’s remnants on Ukrainian soil. He disclosed that the missile originated from Russia’s Kapustin Yar in the Astrakhan region and carried multiple warheads when launched.

This incident has intensified geopolitical tensions, as evidenced by statements from Mike Waltz, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump‘s incoming national security adviser. Waltz emphasized the incoming administration’s focus on de-escalation and the pursuit of diplomatic resolutions, suggesting a unified front with the current U.S. administration in addressing the conflict.

The announcement of the missile incident coincides with additional reports of aerial assaults. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported over 800 guided aerial bombs and multiple drone attacks by Russian forces in the past week, reflecting the sustained intensity of military engagements.

Russia has also reacted to increased military activities, with the Defense Ministry claiming the interception of 34 Ukrainian drones over various western regions, including Kursk and Belgorod, overnight into Sunday.

The continuous conflict underscores the delicacy of international relations and the potential shifts in strategic military policies as the U.S. transitions its presidential administration. The Associated Press’ ongoing coverage of the war seeks to provide accurate updates as the situation evolves.