In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) targeting Ukraine on Thursday morning, according to Kyiv's Air Force. This marks the first use of such a powerful, long-range missile in the war. The missile, launched from Russia's Astrakhan region, was aimed at critical infrastructure in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro.

Unprecedented Missile Strike

The RS-26 Rubezh missile, which has never been used in combat before, was reportedly part of a larger attack that included various missile types. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted six Kh-101 cruise missiles, but it remains unclear whether the ICBM caused any damage. Local authorities in Dnipro reported industrial facilities were hit, resulting in two fires and damage to a rehabilitation center for people with disabilities. At least two people were injured in the attack.

Background and Retaliation

The strike comes in the wake of Ukraine's use of US and UK-supplied long-range missiles to target positions inside Russia earlier this week. Moscow had previously warned that such actions would be met with severe retaliation. Ukrainian media had also reported the Kremlin’s intention to use a “massive” missile in response.

ICBM Capabilities

The RS-26 Rubezh is capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional warheads and can travel at speeds five times the speed of sound, making it challenging for air defense systems like Ukraine’s US-supplied Patriot systems to intercept. Designed for long-range attacks, these missiles have a range of thousands of kilometers and are typically used for strategic, high-impact strikes.

Global Concerns and Embassy Closures

The attack has heightened global tensions, prompting Western nations, including the United States, to temporarily shut their embassies in Kyiv. The closures reflect concerns over the potential for large-scale air strikes amid the escalating conflict.

Escalation of the 1,000-Day War

This latest development underscores the intensifying conflict between Russia and Ukraine, now entering its 1,000th day. While Russia has frequently used shorter-range ballistic missiles, the deployment of an ICBM represents a new level of aggression. As the war deepens, the risk of further escalation looms, raising international fears over the broader implications of such powerful weaponry entering the battlefield.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing monitoring by international agencies and governments.