The first mass-produced Oreshnik missiles have been delivered to the Russian military, President Vladimir Putin told reporters during a meeting with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko today.
The two leaders also discussed plans to deploy the Oreshnik missile system in Belarus. President Lukashenko stated that Belarus aims to deploy the missiles within the year, confirming that "this plan is still on the table."
President Putin added that Russian and Belarusian military experts have identified deployment locations and preparations are underway. "We are likely to complete this before the end of the year," the Russian leader stated, emphasizing that everything is proceeding as planned.
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Putin speaks to reporters during his meeting with Lukashenko on 1/8. Photo: TASS |
Putin speaks to reporters during his meeting with Lukashenko on 1/8. Photo: TASS
Russia first used the hypersonic ballistic missile, Oreshnik, in an attack on Dnipro in central Ukraine in 11/2024.
Russian officials claim the Oreshnik can reach speeds over 10 times the speed of sound, equivalent to almost 11,000 km/h. In addition to its high velocity, the missile utilizes Multiple Independently targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, allowing each missile to carry up to 36 warheads.
President Putin previously asserted that no Western air defense system can intercept the Oreshnik. In January, Ukrainian military commander Oleksandr Syrsky acknowledged that few missile defense systems worldwide are capable of countering the Oreshnik, admitting that Ukraine does not possess such weaponry.
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Debris from an Oreshnik ballistic missile on display in Ukraine in 11/2024. Photo: Reuters |
Debris from an Oreshnik ballistic missile on display in Ukraine in 11/2024. Photo: Reuters
Putin also stated today that the Russian military is attacking along the entire front line in Ukraine and the situation is tilting in Moscow's favor. He cited a July 31 announcement by the Russian Ministry of Defense claiming the capture of the strategic stronghold of Chasov Yar in Donetsk province after 16 months of fighting. Ukraine denies that Russia has fully taken control of Chasov Yar.
The Kremlin leader expressed hope for continued peace talks with Ukraine and the possibility of discussing compromise solutions, but emphasized that Moscow's goals remain unchanged.
Putin suggested that those disappointed with the results of previous peace talks had unrealistic expectations. He also advocated for negotiations to be conducted "without cameras and in a calm atmosphere."
These statements come just a week before the deadline set by the US for Russia to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine. President Donald Trump has warned that if Moscow fails to do so, the US will impose tariffs and severe sanctions on Russia and its trading partners.
Pham Giang (Via RIA Novosti, Reuters)
