Heightening global tensions, Russia tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile that is capable of carrying a nuclear payload, firing the missile about 6,000 miles from northwest Russia to the Pacific Ocean, Reuters reports.
Under development for years, the Sarmat missile test wasn’t a surprise for Western leaders, but the timing–having it while Russia is involved in a war in Ukraine–was unexpected. Russian state-run television showed a Russian general informing Russian President Vladimir Putin of the test’s success.
“The new complex has the highest tactical and technical characteristics and is capable of overcoming all modern means of anti-missile defence. It has no analogues in the world and won’t have for a long time to come,” Putin said. “This truly unique weapon will strengthen the combat potential of our armed forces, reliably ensure Russia’s security from external threats and provide food for thought for those who, in the heat of frenzied aggressive rhetoric, try to threaten our country.”