Russia has successfully tested a new nuclear-capable cruise missile, the Burevestnik, according to President Vladimir Putin. The announcement was made during a meeting with military officials, where Putin described the missile as a "unique creation that no one else in the world possesses."

The missile reportedly flew for approximately 15 hours and covered a distance of 14,000 kilometers (about 8,700 miles) during its final test. Valery Gerasimov, Chief of Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, stated that this distance is not the missile's limit. He emphasized that the Burevestnik's technical characteristics allow it to strike highly protected targets at any distance with guaranteed precision.

Putin ordered preparations for the missile's deployment within the Russian military, highlighting its potential to evade existing defense systems. The development of the Burevestnik began after the United States withdrew from the 1972 Ballistic Missile Treaty in December 2001. The Russian Defense Ministry noted that the creation of new strategic weapon systems aims to enhance defense capabilities and deter aggression against Russia and its allies.

The announcement comes amid ongoing military operations in Ukraine, where Russian forces have been making gradual advances. Despite international pressure for a ceasefire, the Kremlin has resisted calls for negotiations. Putin has stated that he does not want to set a timetable for ending the conflict, emphasizing that military rationality will guide Russia's actions.

In recent days, tensions have escalated, with drone attacks in Kyiv resulting in civilian casualties. On Sunday, three people were killed and dozens were injured in a drone strike on the Ukrainian capital. This follows a series of attacks that have raised concerns about the safety of civilians in the region.

The Burevestnik missile, also known as Skyfall by NATO, has faced skepticism from Western experts regarding its reliability, particularly due to its nuclear-powered engine. The missile's development has been closely monitored since Putin first revealed its existence in 2018, claiming it would have an unlimited range and the ability to evade missile defense systems.

As the situation in Ukraine remains volatile, the Kremlin's announcement of the successful missile test serves as a reminder of the ongoing military capabilities being developed by Russia amid heightened geopolitical tensions.