Russia Launches First ICBM in Ukraine Conflict

Ukraine has reported that Russia launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at Dnipro city, marking the first use of such a weapon in the ongoing conflict. The missile was fired from the Astrakhan region during a morning attack, with Ukrainian air defense successfully intercepting six Kh-101 cruise missiles as part of the assault. This escalation follows Ukraine's recent use of U.S. and British missiles to target areas within Russia, a move that Moscow had warned would provoke a significant response. The situation is further complicated by the U.S. authorization for Ukraine to deploy longer-range ATACMS missiles and new reports of North Korean troops assisting Russia on the battlefield. Russia's Foreign Ministry has stated its willingness to consider peace initiatives that respect its interests, amid ongoing military escalations. The implications of these developments underscore the increasing international dimensions of the conflict and the potential for further escalation.