Kyiv accused Russia of launching an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at Ukraine on Thursday, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict. This missile attack, which did not involve a nuclear warhead, targeted the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro, according to Ukrainian authorities.

The missile strike left two people injured, and Ukraine's air force confirmed the missile was launched from the Astrakhan region in Russia. The Ukrainian air force said this was the first time an ICBM had been used since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. However, Ukrainian officials clarified that the missile was not equipped with a nuclear warhead, despite its capability to carry both conventional and nuclear payloads.

In response, Russia did not confirm the missile launch but stated that it was doing everything possible to prevent a nuclear conflict. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said there was "nothing to say on this topic" when asked about the missile strike.

The missile attack on Dnipro is part of a wider escalation in the conflict, which has seen increased use of long-range missiles. Recently, Ukraine has received permission from the United States to use ATACMS missiles against Russian targets, which have also been used in the ongoing attacks. Ukrainian forces have also reportedly used Storm Shadow missiles, supplied by the UK, to target Russian positions.

Ukrainian air defense units intercepted six missiles, although it remains unclear whether the ICBM was among those shot down. Meanwhile, the regional head of Dnipro reported that the Russian attack had caused damage to a rehabilitation center, several homes, and an industrial enterprise in the area. Two people were injured in the attack, one of whom required hospitalization.

The missile escalation comes amid growing pressure on Ukraine's defensive lines, particularly in the Donetsk region. Russia has claimed further advances in the area, including the capture of the village of Dalne, located just five kilometers from the town of Kurakhove. These developments indicate that Russian forces are continuing to gain ground despite Ukraine's resistance.

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