Russia tests nuclear missile capable of reaching US after CIA chief's Moscow visit

Russia's strategic missile forces successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Friday, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced. The launch occurred at the Plesetsk cosmodrome in the Arkhangelsk region. The ministry stated the test's objective was to "verify the missile's technical and flight characteristics."

During the exercise, Russian forces also practiced relocating a mobile missile launch system to a remote area for a subsequent launch. The ministry confirmed the drills were successful. While the specific missile type was not disclosed, it was described as solid-fueled, a category that includes the "Topol" and "Yars" missiles. These missiles have a range of approximately 10,500 kilometers, enabling them to reach U.S. territory.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Russia possesses a significant arsenal of these missiles, with 271 "Topol" and "Yars" missiles combined. These constitute the backbone of Russia's ground-based missile forces, making up 56% of its total strategic nuclear arsenal.

The missile test took place just three days after an unannounced visit to Moscow by CIA Director John Ratcliffe. Sources suggest Ratcliffe's trip was intended to warn Russian President Vladimir Putin about a potential conflict with NATO. Reports indicate Ratcliffe met with FSB head Alexander Bortnikov, delivering a grim assessment of Russia's economic prospects and military situation.