Reuters reported that on May 18, the Military Intelligence Service of Ukraine (GUR) said Russia was planning to launch an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) as part of a combat training course, starting from the Sverdlovsk region - central Russia.
GUR described it as a clear demonstration action to put pressure on Ukraine, while sending a deterrent message to the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization ( NATO).
To show off its power and put pressure on Ukraine as well as EU and NATO member states, Russia plans to launch an training and combat of the RS-24 intercontinental ballistic missile from the Yars complex, the GUR statement on Telegram stated.
Information from GUR said that the RS-24 missile has a range of more than 10,000 km, capable of reaching the territory of any country in Europe, even many regions in North America.
Russia has not yet commented on the accusations from Ukraine. Moscow has traditionally not disclosed detailed plans for nuclear warhead missile tests, which are classified as military secrets. However, Russia will often make a statement after a launch is carried out.
The RS-24 Yars intercontinental ballistic missile is one of Russia's main strategic weapons, capable of carrying many independent nuclear warheads (MIRV), designed to penetrate modern missile defense systems. Moscow's deployment or testing of this type of weapon has always attracted the close attention of international observers.
The information was given by GUR in the context of the escalating military situation in Ukraine, especially on the Eastern front, where Russia is stepping up attacks to gain dominance.
Western analysts have warned that Russia's conduct of long-range missile testing in the context of tense warfare could lead to misunderstandings, escalate tensions or even miscalculation.
There are currently no signs of Russia using nuclear weapons in the conflict in Ukraine, but the moves are raising concerns that Moscow could use nuclear elements as a strategic deterrent in its confrontation with the West.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to end the conflict are still at a standstill. The negotiation initiatives have not yet achieved a significant breakthrough. Ukraine continues to call for more military aid from the US and Europe to deal with a new wave of attacks from Russia.
