Escalation of Conflict: Russia Uses 9M729 Missiles in Attacks on Ukraine
Recent developments in Russia’s missile strikes reveal a deepening of the conflict on Ukrainian soil.
According to international sources and Ukrainian officials, Russia has intensified the use of the cruise missile 9M729, raising serious concerns worldwide.
This marks the first confirmed case of Russia employing this banned missile against Ukrainian targets, sending a troubling signal to all parties involved.
Senior Ukrainian officials report that since August 2022, Russia has conducted at least 23 missile strikes across Ukraine, with two additional launches of the same missile observed last month.
Military analysts affirm that the missile, capable of carrying nuclear or conventional warheads and with a range exceeding 2500 km, was used during an attack in October, which resulted in destruction and casualties in the village of Lapaivka in Lviv region.
This deployment of prohibited weaponry demonstrates Russia’s blatant disregard for international treaties and diplomatic efforts, particularly following its withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) in 2019.
Western nations strongly condemn these actions, accusing Russia of violating agreements and deploying missiles capable of reaching European territories.
Ukrainian officials urge the international community to impose tougher sanctions and bolster defense capabilities in response to escalation.
Official confirmation of missile use remains limited, but reports indicate launches in August 2022 and October 5, 2022.
A military source confirmed that the 9M729 missile flew over 1200 km during an attack in October, hitting a residential building in Lapaivka, killing five residents.
Fragments of the missile, including sections containing cables, were identified as belonging to the 9M729, corroborating use of this banned missile.
Experts highlight that such actions pose a serious threat to international security and the non-proliferation regime.
Russia denies any treaty violations, while the US and NATO insist that the missile’s range exceeds permitted limits.
Overall, this situation underscores the urgent need for the global community to prevent further escalation and seek diplomatic solutions to restore stability.