US Sanctions as Russia Tests Burevestnik

The United States announced new measures aimed at weakening Moscow’s economy and signaled further sanctions that it says will take effect over time. Russia reported a test of the nuclear‑powered Burevestnik (SSC‑X‑9/Skyfall), saying the weapon flew roughly 8,700–14,000 km over about 15 hours, included a nuclear‑related exercise, and that Moscow had notified the United States in advance. The Kremlin hailed the system as “unique” with an almost “unlimited” range, while Western experts remain skeptical and point to a 2019 failed test that caused a deadly explosion. President Donald Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, dismissed the announcement as “not appropriate,” urged Vladimir Putin to end the nearly four‑year war in Ukraine, downplayed the weapon’s strategic necessity and noted a U.S. nuclear submarine off Russia’s coast. Observers say Putin appears prepared to absorb additional sanctions while continuing to signal strength domestically and on the battlefield in Ukraine.