Russia Closes Airspace, Lifts Missile Moratorium Citing NATO Threats

Russia has lifted its moratorium on the deployment of ground-launched intermediate-range and shorter-range missiles, a decision announced by the Russian Foreign Ministry and attributed to NATO's anti-Russian policies. This move follows the U.S. withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019, which Russia cited as justification due to alleged Western violations and destabilizing actions. The closure of airspace over the Kapustin Yar test range signals preparations for possible missile testing, highlighting escalating tensions regarding missile deployment. Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council and former president, emphasized that this new reality will compel all opponents to reckon with Russia’s further countermeasures. The Russian Foreign Ministry framed the decision as a necessary response to the deployment of U.S.-made intermediate-range missiles in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, underscoring the perceived threat to Russia’s security. Medvedev’s warnings indicate that Moscow anticipates taking additional steps amid deteriorating international strategic stability.