Putin Announces Successful Test of Nuclear-Powered Cruise Missile as Diplomacy Falters
MOSCOW – Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the successful test of a new nuclear-powered cruise missile, the Burevestnik, amid escalating tensions and a breakdown in diplomatic efforts with the West. The announcement, made Saturday, comes as international concerns grow over Russia’s nuclear posture and its ongoing war in Ukraine.
The test,if verified,demonstrates Russia’s continued investment in novel nuclear weapons systems,possibly circumventing existing arms control treaties and raising the stakes in a volatile geopolitical landscape. The Burevestnik, also known as the Skybreaker, is a long-range, nuclear-powered cruise missile designed for potentially unlimited range, posing a unique challenge to existing missile defense systems. This development occurs as former President Donald Trump has indicated he sees no immediate path for renewed talks with Putin, stating any summit would require a discernible prospect for a peace agreement.
Putin stated the missile has undergone numerous tests and is now nearing completion, according to state news agency TASS. The Russian leader has repeatedly touted the Burevestnik as a weapon capable of striking targets anywhere in the world, and resistant to interception due to its low-altitude flight path and nuclear propulsion.
The announcement follows a recent wave of Russian aerial attacks on Kyiv, damaging residential buildings on Saturday, as reported by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.These attacks underscore the ongoing conflict and the potential for escalation.
On Saturday, Trump expressed a pessimistic outlook regarding potential negotiations with Putin, stating he has no current plans for a meeting. “I’m going to have to know that we’re going to make a deal,” Trump told reporters while traveling to Asia. “I’m not going to be wasting my time. I’ve always had a great relationship with Vladimir Putin,but this has been very disappointing,” he added.
The Burevestnik missile has been a source of international concern since its initial development was revealed in 2018. The United States has previously expressed skepticism about the weapon’s viability,citing reports of testing failures. However, Russia maintains its progress and capabilities.
CNN’s Nina Subkhanberdina, Alejandra Jaramillo, and Kosta Gak contributed reporting.
