Russia used an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) to attack the Dnepropetrovsk region on Thursday morning. This, according to analysts, was an attempt to send a signal to the West after Ukraine first used ATACMS and Storm Shadow missiles to attack Russian territory. This view was expressed by a senior analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute in a commentary for CNN.
The analyst pointed out that the launch of the intercontinental ballistic missile was not nuclear. According to him, the missile most likely lacked a nuclear warhead and was used as an inert carrier or with a conventional warhead. However, the very fact of using powerful and long-range weapons may indicate Russia’s desire to put pressure on the West.
The expert explained that Moscow’s actions are probably aimed at warning the West about the seriousness of the situation. Russia perceives Ukraine’s use of Storm Shadow and ATACMS missiles as a challenge to its critical interests. Thus, Russia is trying to intimidate Western countries and force them to reconsider their support for Ukraine.
However, the analyst emphasized that it is important for Ukraine and its Western allies to remain resilient and not succumb to threats. He expressed the view that a withdrawal would only embolden Russia to repeat such attacks.
This incident demonstrates how Russia uses high-tech weapons not only for military purposes, but also as an element of information and psychological pressure, seeking to weaken Western support for Ukraine. The expert added that a strong allied stance remains key to countering these intimidation attempts.
Previously, Kursor reported that a video had emerged of an intercontinental missile attack by the Russian Armed Forces against Ukraine.
The Russian Armed Forces launched an attack with intercontinental ballistic missiles against the city of Dnepr this morning.
