Russia launches experimental ballistic missile at Ukraine as tensions rise
Russia has launched a new hypersonic ballistic missile, the Oreshnik, against Ukraine, marking its first use in the conflict. This follows claims of Ukrainian strikes using Western long-range missiles. U.S. officials suggest the missile used was an intermediate-range type, not hypersonic. Tensions have escalated as Russia's foreign ministry labeled a U.S. missile defense base in Poland a "priority target." The base is part of NATO's defense system, which aims to intercept short- to intermediate-range missiles. Poland insists the base is defensive. In related developments, Russia has amassed troops in Kursk, including North Korean soldiers, amid ongoing strikes on Ukrainian cities. The UK has increased support for Ukraine, while Russia claims to have intercepted several Western missiles.