Story perspectives

Putin Unveils Nuclear Missile, Analysts Raise Concerns

10/30/2025

Summary

Story summary

President Vladimir Putin claims Russia's nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile can evade missile defenses after flying 14,000 kilometers in 15 hours.
Putin announced the successful test of the Poseidon underwater drone, designed to create tsunamis.
Analysts warn that the Burevestnik's nuclear propulsion could release radioactive exhaust, earning it the nickname "flying Chornobyl."
Analysts question the missile's strategic value, citing its subsonic speed and potential vulnerability to detection.

History

Historical Context

The Burevestnik cruise missile, a revived Soviet project, was successfully tested by Russia in 2019, demonstrating its nuclear propulsion and a claimed range of 14,000 kilometers. This development echoes Cold War tensions, raising alarms among NATO and the U.S. about regional security and prompting discussions on arms control, reminiscent of past arms races that shaped global military dynamics.

1 of 2

Story summary

President Vladimir Putin claims Russia's nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile can evade missile defenses after flying 14,000 kilometers in 15 hours.
Putin announced the successful test of the Poseidon underwater drone, designed to create tsunamis.
Analysts warn that the Burevestnik's nuclear propulsion could release radioactive exhaust, earning it the nickname "flying Chornobyl."
Analysts question the missile's strategic value, citing its subsonic speed and potential vulnerability to detection.

1 / 2