Russian President Orders Test of Intercontinental Missile Amid Rising Tensions with the West

Russian President Vladimir Putin orders the test of the RSM-56 Bulava intercontinental ballistic missile, named 'The Sceptre', escalating tensions with the West amidst conflicts in Ukraine. The test, conducted from a Borei-class submarine, comes as part of a series of developments including Russian military aid to Ukraine and growing Moscow-Beijing alliance against Western influence.

On May 15, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the test of the RSM-56 Bulava intercontinental ballistic missile, also known as “The Sceptre,” capable of striking targets 5,000 miles away. This missile was launched from a Borei-class submarine at an undisclosed location. The test comes amid heightened tensions with the West due to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine.

The Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology developed the Bulava missile, which was accepted into service by the Russian Armed Forces on May 7, 2024. Russia has previously tested the missile, claiming successful launches from the White Sea, targeting regions on the Kamchatka Peninsula.

Meanwhile, U.S. authorities have expressed concerns about Russia developing anti-satellite weapons that could disrupt critical space assets, adding to the geopolitical anxieties.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has escalated, with Russia amassing 510,000 troops near the Ukrainian border. An analysis by the Royal United Services Institute warns of a potential “tipping point” if Ukrainian forces are not adequately resupplied.

In response, the Biden administration announced $2 billion in military aid to Ukraine, including new weapons systems funded by Congress's recent $61 billion package. However, the U.S. has maintained its stance that American-supplied weaponry should not be used for strikes within Russian territory.

Despite this, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has defended Ukraine’s right to retaliate against Russian targets. The conflict’s impact on both nations' economies is significant, with Russia adapting to a war economy while Ukraine heavily relies on Western support.

Simultaneously, Putin has indicated a willingness to negotiate, as reported in an interview with China’s Xinhua News Agency, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and just settlement. Putin’s visit to China underscores the growing Moscow-Beijing alliance against Western influence, focusing on bolstering military and strategic cooperation.

The global community continues to navigate the complex and evolving dynamics of this conflict, with significant implications for international stability and security.