Russia Launches Intercontinental Missile towards Ukraine amid Growing Tensions

europe, ukraine, russia, united states - Russia has reportedly launched an intercontinental ballistic missile towards Ukraine, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict

In a week filled with accusations, threats, and tensions, Russia has carried out an attack using an intercontinental ICBM missile for the first time in the war, according to the Ukrainian air force. With estimates of death tolls reaching hundreds of thousands on both sides, the war in Ukraine is already the bloodiest conflict on European soil since World War II. The future remains uncertain with the upcoming inauguration of Donald Trump. The Republican has emphasized 'peace' this week, but his exact intentions remain unclear, warning that the world is 'on the brink of World War III'.

On the other hand, it is Russia that seems to have gained some momentum after a challenging start to the military operation and is now able to take advantage of more troops, including reinforcements from North Korea, and potentially enhanced military assets such as ballistic missiles equipped with nuclear warheads or conventional weapons.

Ukraine is facing increased political pressure. The Americans have cautioned about heavy air strikes on Kiev in response to Biden's easing policy now being implemented, as foreign news editor Thijs Wolters explains. Marc Santora, a correspondent for the New York Times, foresees more violence in the coming months, especially since Ukraine has been granted permission by President Joe Biden to strike deeper into Russian territory.

Poetin, on the other hand, is likely to intensify attacks before Trump takes office. The alleged launch of the first ballistic missile towards Ukraine on Thursday serves as further provocation. Santora predicts that Russia will continue with heavy bombardments in an attempt to break the country and its people.

While a single weapon may not be decisive in the course of the war, the incoming Trump administration's talks of peace negotiations based on a ceasefire could complicate Putin's desires to recover all occupied Russian territories. The Atlantic Council suggests that Western weapons with extended range could pose challenges for Putin and bolster Kiev's influence in future discussions.

Furthermore, reports of sabotaged internet cables in the Baltic Sea have added to the already tense atmosphere. Various signs point to intensified Russian actions in Europe, ranging from espionage to physical sabotage. European countries may find it challenging to counter such actions effectively.

Russia's escalating hybrid activities against NATO and EU nations have raised significant security concerns. Despite Europe's limited options in responding to such actions, surveillance will be increased, and damages will be investigated. The UK perceives the deployment of thousands of North Korean soldiers in Ukraine as a clear escalation, prompting London's approval for the use of long-range missiles.

France's recent authorization for the use of cruise missiles, albeit belatedly, reflects Western defense analysts' acknowledgment of Russia's deterrence tactics. The fear of escalation is being weaponized by Russia to prevent counteractions while continuously pushing boundaries, according to experts.