Russian presidential representative Kirill Dmitriev informed US officials about a meeting with President Putin at which a new nuclear-capable missile test was discussed. This statement followed US sanctions targeting Russian energy giants Rosneft and Lukoil.
The Kremlin’s actions reflect Vladimir Putin’s strategy toward Donald Trump—an approach of escalating tension and attempts at intimidation. Instead of offering economic cooperation, the Russian side highlights nuclear missile tests.
Previously, Russia had tested another ballistic missile, the Yars, which landed on a Kamchatka testing range near US borders. Experts note these actions are deliberate and part of a broader pressure campaign.
On the other hand, Donald Trump is dissatisfied with Putin's rejection of his ceasefire conditions in Ukraine. The US administration has therefore ramped up sanctions and is considering further measures, including expanding military aid to Ukraine via NATO or directly. These moves may also have political ramifications, affecting Republican support among voters critical of Putin’s policies.
Putin, for his part, will likely respond with continued escalatory signals, including missile tests, although escalation options are increasingly limited. Scenarios could include intensified attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure or, in extreme cases, broadening the conflict to NATO territory. The most dramatic escalation would be direct Russian strikes on US targets and subsequent American retaliation, possibly risking a wider war involving nuclear weapons.
This escalation could either open new negotiation prospects or push the conflict to a dangerous global scale, reflecting the new atmosphere of confrontation between Moscow and Washington.
