Russia Deploys Rare Nuclear-Capable Missile in Ukraine Strike

Russia has used a rare, powerful ballistic missile in an attack on Ukraine. It is only the second time Moscow has launched this type of weapon since the war began. The missile is called the 9M730 Burevestnik, also known by its NATO reporting name, SSC-X-9 "Skyfall." However, the weapon used in this strike is the OTR-23 **Oka**, known by NATO as the SS-23 **Oreshnik** or "Spider." It is an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM). An IRBM is a land-based weapon that can travel between 3,000 and 5,500 kilometers. This strike confirms Russia is using some of its most advanced, long-range conventional weapons. Western analysts note the Oka/Oreshnik is "nuclear-capable." This means it is designed to carry a nuclear warhead. Its use raises serious concerns, though there is no indication a nuclear weapon was involved in this attack. The repeated use of this rare missile suggests Russia may be testing new tactics or facing shortages of other precision weapons. Military experts are closely watching for further launches.