On Oct. 26, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that a new nuclear‑propelled intercontinental missile had successfully completed flight tests, a development that Donald Trump criticised as misplaced.
Trump dismisses Putin’s missile announcement
In a press briefing aboard Air Force One, Trump said Putin’s declaration of a successful test of a nuclear‑powered submarine‑launched ballistic missile was “unnecessary and inappropriate.” He reminded journalists that the U.S. operates a nuclear‑propelled submarine stationed near Russia’s coast, the world’s best, and that it need not fly 8,000 miles. Trump added that Americans also continually test rockets, arguing the war should have ended a week ago but has lasted four years and that the U.S. should focus on ending the conflict instead of missile tests.
Russia claims breakthrough with new missile
On Sunday, Oct. 26, Putin announced that the test of a new maneuverable missile named Buriewiestnik (NATO calls it SSC‑X‑9 Skyfall) had been completed. According to Russia, it can penetrate any defensive shield and is indestructible. The test took place a few days after nuclear exercises.
Missile performance: 14,000 km, 15 hours airborne
Generał Walerij Gierasimow, head of the Russian General Staff, said the missile travelled about 14,000 km and remained aloft for around 15 hours during the test.
Putin touts weapon as unique and superior
Putin said the weapon is unique and that Russia’s modern nuclear deterrent is at the highest level, higher than any other nuclear power. He assured it would be introduced into military service, though he warned there is still much work to be done and that key tasks have already been completed. Putin previously said in 2018 that the weapon would answer the U.S. anti‑missile global shield program that began in 2001.