Russian President Vladimir Putin confirms successful conclusion of tests for the advanced nuclear-powered cruise missile.
MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Sunday the successful final test of a new nuclear-powered cruise missile, named Burevestnik.
This development comes amid Russia's ongoing military operations in Ukraine and speculation about a potential summit between Putin and U.S. President
Donald Trump.
In a video address released by the Kremlin during a meeting with military officials, Putin stated that the decisive tests for the Burevestnik have been completed.
He ordered the preparation of necessary infrastructure to deploy this new weapon within the Russian Armed Forces.
According to Putin, the missile is 'a unique creation that no other country in the world possesses,' and it boasts an 'unlimited range.'
During its last test on October 21, the Burevestnik flew for approximately 15 hours and covered a distance of 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles), as confirmed by Russia's Chief of Staff, Valery Gerasimov.
This distance represents not the maximum capability of the missile but indicates its potential to travel significantly further.
Gerasimov emphasized that the technical specifications of the Burevestnik enable it to strike highly fortified targets with precision at any distance, underlining its strategic significance.
The development and testing of the Burevestnik were initially announced by Putin in 2018, in response to perceived threats from the United States.
The successful conclusion of the missile's final test comes as Russian forces continue their advance in Ukraine, despite costly battles against Kyiv's defenses.
Peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine have stalled, with Trump administration mediation efforts showing little progress.
In recent days, Trump expressed skepticism about a new summit with Putin, stating he would not 'be wasting my time.' On the other hand, Kremlin negotiator Kirill Dmitriev engaged in talks with U.S. officials over the weekend, which are expected to continue.
Meanwhile, on Sunday, Putin stated that Russia will not align its actions with any specific dates or events for ending the conflict in Ukraine.
Instead, the decision-making process will be based on military rationality.
Separately, an overnight Russian drone attack on Kyiv resulted in three casualties and dozens of injuries according to the city's mayor.
In retaliation, a Ukrainian drone incursion into Russia’s Belgorod region led to one death and one injury, as reported by the local governor.