In a significant escalation of military tensions in Europe, Russia has officially placed a new nuclear-capable missile system on active combat duty, raising serious concerns across NATO nations.
According to reporting by Metro, the weapon is capable of striking targets in the United Kingdom in approximately 11 minutes, dramatically reducing warning times and intensifying fears over regional security.
The missile has reportedly been deployed to neighbouring Belarus, positioning it far closer to Western Europe than similar systems based inside Russia.
The missile, identified as the Oreshnik, is described by Russian officials as an intermediate-range ballistic missile with hypersonic capabilities.
Russian state media have emphasized its extreme speed, claiming it travels at more than Mach 10, making it exceptionally difficult to detect and intercept using existing missile defence systems.
One report stated that the missile is “virtually impossible to stop once launched,” underscoring the strategic challenge it presents to Western militaries.
By placing the missile system in Belarus, Russia has significantly shortened the distance to major European capitals and military infrastructure.
Defense analysts warn that this deployment compresses response times for NATO, leaving decision-makers with only minutes to assess whether a launch is conventional or nuclear in nature.
The ambiguity surrounding the missile’s payload is particularly concerning, as the Oreshnik is believed to be capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads, with no way to distinguish between the two during flight.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has publicly confirmed the presence of the missile systems in his country, describing the move as a strengthening of Belarus’ strategic alliance with Moscow.
Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously stated that the missile would be placed on combat duty before the end of the year, a promise that now appears fulfilled. Footage released by Russian and Belarusian defense ministries reportedly shows mobile launchers and trained crews conducting readiness drills.
The timing of the deployment has drawn international scrutiny, particularly as diplomatic efforts continue to end the prolonged war in Ukraine.
While negotiations have aimed at reducing hostilities, Russia’s decision to operationalize a nuclear-capable missile so close to NATO borders is widely viewed as a show of force. Analysts suggest the move is intended to deter further Western military support for Ukraine while strengthening Russia’s negotiating leverage.