Russia Tests Burevestnik, Plans Oreshnik, Fires 9M729

Russia has tested and is deploying a suite of advanced long‑range, nuclear‑capable weapons — including the Burevestnik nuclear‑powered cruise missile (tested Oct. 26), the Oreshnik intermediate‑range ballistic system slated for combat duty in Belarus in December 2025, and the ground‑launched 9M729/Novator cruise missile. Russian statements claim dramatic capabilities for the Burevestnik (~14,000 km) and the Oreshnik (speeds above Mach 10 and ranges up to ~5,500 km), while Kyiv and Western analysts say the demonstrations are intended to intimidate and complicate allied support for Ukraine. Ukraine says the INF‑prohibited 9M729 has been fired at least 23 times since August 2025, with one flight recorded at about 1,200 km — its first confirmed combat use and a principal rationale for the U.S. withdrawal from the INF Treaty. Kyiv also reports it destroyed an Oreshnik on the ground. Observers warn these developments amount to nuclear saber‑rattling that raises the stakes of the war. The reports have intensified Ukrainian appeals for long‑range Tomahawk strikes and stronger air defenses and increased Western concern about threats to Europe and NATO’s eastern flank.