On 26 October, Vladimir Putin announced that Russia’s new Buryevstik nuclear‑propelled missile completed a 14,000‑km flight, claiming a unique, unbreakable weapon that can bypass all air defenses.
Test Flight Details
According to Gen. Valeriy Garkazimov, the test carried out on 21 October covered 14,000 kilometers and lasted approximately 15 hours. Garkazimov reported that the missile hit its intended target, “in the objective,” during the flight.
Unmatched Weapon Claim
Putin described the Buryevstik as “truly unique” and stated that no other nation possesses a weapon of this type. He highlighted the missile’s nuclear engine as a key differentiator that could allow it to strike any modern or future air‑defense system.
History of Prior Tests
Since its first unveiling in 2018, the 9M370 Buryevstik has suffered a record of failures. Out of 13 known trials, 11 ended unsuccessfully. A 2019 incident saw the missile crash into the White Sea, and an attempt to recover its reactor caused an explosion that killed five people.
Political Engagements
Putin visited a command post in Ukraine in which Russian units are engaged, meeting with senior commanders shortly after U.S. President Trump raised remarks on a Russo‑American skirmish. He referenced recent triad nuclear exercises, affirming Russian strategic forces’ readiness to counter attacks on Russia and Belarus. The visit also covered Russian control over Ukrainian towns such as Kupiansk, Pokrovske, and Myrne, and Putin reiterated compliance with international conventions for treating captured Ukrainian soldiers.
