Government of Ukraine officials say that 9M729 cruise missile, the ground-launched weapon whose alleged development originally led the Intermediate‑Range Nuclear Forces Treaty to collapse in 2019 under Donald Trump, has been used in combat against Ukraine.
The missile reportedly has a range of up to 2,500 km and Russia has fired it at least 23 times since August 2025, including one reported launch of over 1,200 km.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha says the first official confirmation of its use comes amid mounting Western concern over European security.
The weapon’s deployment highlights Moscow’s broadened luxury of strike options, enabling launches from deeper inside Russian territory, complicating Kyiv’s defence efforts.
Analysts warn the move escalates the war and signals improvised use of treaty-banned systems to enhance reach and deterrence.
Russian officials have not responded directly to the claim, and verification of all launches remains challenging.
Kyiv says the revelation underscores the need for long-range Western-supplied missiles to counter this evolving threat.
