Russia's Deployment of the 9M729 Missile in Ukraine: A Breach of Arms Control

In recent months, Russia has utilized the 9M729 ground-launched cruise missile, a weapon whose covert development led to the United States' withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed that Russia has launched the missile at least 23 times against Ukraine since August 2025, marking its first documented combat use. The missile, known as the SSC-8 by NATO, is capable of carrying nuclear or conventional warheads and has a reported range of up to 2,500 kilometers.

Ukraine says Russia used 9M729 missile that ended INF TreatyUnited24 MediaKyiv confirms use of Russia’s INF-banned 9M729 missile in strikes on Ukraine – ReutersMoscow TimesRussia Fired Nuclear-capable Missiles in Ukraine At Least 23 TimesKyiv IndependentRussia Deploys Missile in Ukraine Sparking U.S. Withdrawal From Nuclear TreatyThe HillRussia’s Treaty-Busting Screwdriver Cruise Missile Used Against Ukraine: Officials

The INF Treaty, signed in 1987 by U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, aimed to eliminate an entire class of ground-launched missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers. The U.S. accused Russia of violating the treaty by developing the 9M729 missile, which was believed to exceed the treaty's range limits. Following these accusations, the U.S. formally withdrew from the treaty in August 2019, a decision that has since been viewed as a catalyst for renewed tensions in European security dynamics.

Kyiv IndependentKyiv confirms use of Russia’s INF-banned 9M729 missile in strikes on Ukraine – ReutersUkraine says Russia used 9M729 missile that ended INF TreatyThe HillMoscow TimesUnited24 MediaReutersRussia Fired Nuclear-capable Missiles in Ukraine At Least 23 Times

The deployment of the 9M729 missile in Ukraine raises significant concerns regarding European security. Analysts suggest that its use complicates Ukraine's air defense capabilities, as the missile can be launched from mobile platforms deep within Russian territory, making it difficult to detect and intercept. The missile's ability to strike targets over 1,200 kilometers away, as evidenced by a strike on October 5, 2025, underscores its potential to threaten not only Ukraine but also NATO allies in Europe.

Ukraine says Russia used 9M729 missile that ended INF TreatyRussia Fired Nuclear-capable Missiles in Ukraine At Least 23 TimesReutersRussia Deploys Missile in Ukraine Sparking U.S. Withdrawal From Nuclear TreatyKyiv confirms use of Russia’s INF-banned 9M729 missile in strikes on Ukraine – ReutersRussia’s Treaty-Busting Screwdriver Cruise Missile Used Against Ukraine: OfficialsUnited24 MediaKyiv Independent

Andrii Sybiha stated, “Russia’s use of the INF-banned 9M729 against Ukraine in the past months demonstrates President Vladimir Putin’s disrespect to the United States and President Trump’s diplomatic efforts to end Russia’s war against Ukraine.” He emphasized the need for maximum pressure on Russia to compel it to negotiate peace, suggesting that enhancing Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities could be pivotal in this effort.

ReutersRussia’s Treaty-Busting Screwdriver Cruise Missile Used Against Ukraine: OfficialsKyiv confirms use of Russia’s INF-banned 9M729 missile in strikes on Ukraine – ReutersThe HillRussia Deploys Missile in Ukraine Sparking U.S. Withdrawal From Nuclear TreatyKyiv IndependentUnited24 MediaRussia Fired Nuclear-capable Missiles in Ukraine At Least 23 Times

Critics argue that the use of the 9M729 missile signifies a dangerous escalation in the conflict and a blatant disregard for international arms control agreements. Former British defense attaché John Foreman warned that the missile's deployment poses a broader issue for European security, as it could alter regional deterrence dynamics. Additionally, there are concerns that the missile's operational use reflects a shift in Russia's military strategy, potentially leading to an arms race in Europe.

Ukraine says Russia used 9M729 missile that ended INF Treaty

While Ukrainian officials have confirmed the missile's use, the Russian government has not publicly acknowledged these claims. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov referred inquiries to the Russian defense ministry, which has yet to provide a detailed response regarding the missile's deployment.

ReutersReutersRussia Deploys Missile in Ukraine Sparking U.S. Withdrawal From Nuclear TreatyMoscow TimesKyiv confirms use of Russia’s INF-banned 9M729 missile in strikes on Ukraine – ReutersUnited24 MediaKyiv IndependentUkraine says Russia used 9M729 missile that ended INF Treaty

The ongoing use of the 9M729 missile in Ukraine may prompt further military and diplomatic responses from the U.S. and NATO allies. As Ukraine continues to advocate for enhanced military support, including long-range Tomahawk missiles, the situation remains fluid, with potential implications for future peace negotiations and regional stability.

Ukraine says Russia used 9M729 missile that ended INF Treaty

• “Russia's use of the INF-banned 9M729 against Ukraine in the past months demonstrates (President Vladimir) Putin's disrespect to the United States and President Trump's diplomatic efforts to end Russia's war against Ukraine,” — Andrii Sybiha, Ukrainian Foreign Minister

Reuters

• “If it's shown that Russia's using INF-range missiles, which could easily be nuclear, in Ukraine, then that is an issue for European security, not just Ukraine,” — John Foreman, Former British Defense Attaché

Reuters

• “The use of this INF-banned system shows Putin’s utter contempt for the United States and for President Trump’s diplomatic efforts to end the war,” — Andrii Sybiha, Ukrainian Foreign Minister

Russia Fired Nuclear-capable Missiles in Ukraine At Least 23 Times

The deployment of the 9M729 missile not only revives a contentious arms control issue but also poses new challenges for European security, as the conflict in Ukraine continues to evolve.

Russia Fired Nuclear-capable Missiles in Ukraine At Least 23 Times