Story perspectives

Ukraine Warns: Russia's Cruise Missile Threat Escalates

11/1/2025

Summary

Sybiha Confirms Missile Threat

Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine's Foreign Minister, confirmed that Russia has deployed the 9M729 cruise missile against Ukraine at least 23 times since August.
The 9M729 can carry nuclear or conventional warheads.
The 9M729 has a range exceeding 1,200 kilometers.
Analysts say the deployments mark a significant escalation and threaten European security.
Ukraine urges Western allies to bolster long-range strike capabilities to counter the threat after Russia lifted the INF-range moratorium.

History

Historical Context

The INF Treaty, signed by U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev on December 8, 1987, eliminated over 2,600 intermediate-range missiles, easing Cold War tensions. However, the U.S. withdrew from the treaty in August 2019, citing Russian violations, while Russia's recent deployment of the 9M729 missile threatens European security and may prompt increased military support for Ukraine.

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Sybiha Confirms Missile Threat

Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine's Foreign Minister, confirmed that Russia has deployed the 9M729 cruise missile against Ukraine at least 23 times since August.
The 9M729 can carry nuclear or conventional warheads.
The 9M729 has a range exceeding 1,200 kilometers.
Analysts say the deployments mark a significant escalation and threaten European security.
Ukraine urges Western allies to bolster long-range strike capabilities to counter the threat after Russia lifted the INF-range moratorium.

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