What's happened
Tensions between Russia and the U.S. escalate as Russia warns of potential strikes against NATO allies following the deployment of the Oreshnik hypersonic missile. Fierce fighting continues near Pokrovsk, with Russian forces advancing. The U.S. announces additional military aid for Ukraine amid these developments.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that the warning about potential strikes comes amid increasing confrontation in U.S.-Russia relations. The Pentagon has indicated that the Oreshnik missile, while hyped by Putin, is not a game-changer on the battlefield. In contrast, U.S. officials view it as an experimental weapon with limited operational capacity. The South China Morning Post highlights that the missile's first use was a direct response to Ukraine's use of Western-supplied missiles, indicating a tit-for-tat escalation in the conflict. This dynamic is further complicated by the Biden administration's commitment to providing Ukraine with additional military support, as reported by The Independent.
How we got here
The Oreshnik missile was first used by Russia on November 21, 2024, targeting Ukraine in response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory. This missile is viewed by U.S. officials as an intimidation tactic rather than a significant battlefield advancement.
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