In an unprecedented military action on November 21, 2024, the Ukrainian Air Force confirmed that Russian forces launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at the city of Dnipro, Ukraine. This event marks the first known combat use of an ICBM in history, signaling a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Key Facts:
- Missile Origin: The ICBM was launched from Russia’s Astrakhan region.
- Time of Strike: The attack occurred around 5 AM local time in Dnipro.
- Weapon Description:
- The missile was a conventionally armed ICBM, meaning it did not carry a nuclear warhead.
- Alongside the ICBM, the attack included a Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missile and seven Kh-101 cruise missiles.
- Defense Efforts:
- Ukrainian air defenses managed to intercept six of the Kh-101 cruise missiles.
- The ICBM and the Kinzhal missile were not intercepted.
- Impact in Dnipro:
- The attack targeted critical infrastructure, damaging an industrial facility and a rehabilitation center for people with disabilities.
- Fortunately, there were no reported casualties directly from this ICBM strike, though the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
Strategic Implications:
- Military Innovation: The use of an ICBM with conventional warheads could indicate a new strategic approach by Russia, possibly aimed at overwhelming Ukrainian defenses.
- International Reaction: This development is likely to provoke discussions on arms control and the rules of engagement in modern warfare.
Reactions:
- Ukrainian Authorities: The Ukrainian government has condemned the attack as an escalation and called for increased international support.
- Global Observers: Analysts are concerned about the implications for future conflicts, where such powerful missiles might be used more frequently.
