Russia Successfully Tests Nuclear-Powered Burevestnik Missile Amid Rising Tensions with the West

Russia has successfully conducted a test of its nuclear-powered 9M730 Burevestnik cruise missile, President Vladimir Putin announced on Sunday. The missile, known by NATO as the SSC-X-9 Skyfall, reportedly traveled 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles) over 15 hours during an October 21 test, showcasing what Moscow calls “unlimited range” and the ability to bypass any missile defense system.

Putin, addressing military leaders while wearing camouflage fatigues, hailed the Burevestnik as a unique weapon unmatched globally. He said Russian specialists once doubted the missile’s feasibility, but its “crucial testing” has now been completed. The next phase, he added, involves determining how to classify the weapon and building the infrastructure for deployment.

The test follows a large-scale nuclear drill last week, signaling Russia’s defiance toward Western pressure over the war in Ukraine. It also serves as a direct message to U.S. President Donald Trump, who has recently taken a tougher stance toward Moscow to push for a ceasefire.

General Valery Gerasimov, Russia’s top military official, confirmed the missile flew entirely on nuclear power and could evade all current anti-missile defenses. He also reported successful test launches of Yars and Sineva intercontinental ballistic missiles and Kh-102 air-launched cruise missiles during the recent nuclear exercises.

Putin emphasized that Russia’s nuclear deterrent remains at “the highest level,” surpassing any other nuclear power. In Ukraine, Russian forces reportedly encircled Ukrainian troops near Pokrovsk in Donetsk and made gains in Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Zaporizhzhia regions.

With tensions escalating, the Burevestnik test underscores Russia’s intent to reinforce its strategic deterrence while warning the West—and particularly Washington—against underestimating its military power.