Ukrainian drones have successfully targeted a secretive super-weapon testing center in Russia linked to Vladimir Putin. The bold preemptive strike aimed to disrupt the testing of advanced Oreshnik missiles. Military sources revealed that Ukrainian drones attacked the 4th State Central Inter-Service Test Range Kapustin Yar in the Astrakhan Region, breaking through Russian air defenses and hitting an assembly and testing building approximately 500 miles away from the Ukrainian border.
Intelligence reports suggest that Putin is on the brink of launching a potentially devastating assault on Volodymyr Zelensky’s state, possibly involving the deployment of the high-speed Oreshnik “super-weapon.” The Russian military’s strategy may include a campaign to target Ukraine’s nuclear power plant substations, aiming to coerce surrender by cutting off electricity supply. Additionally, Moscow plans to intimidate European countries and the West to hinder support for Ukraine and impede their ability to defend against Russian air strikes on critical infrastructure.
The destruction or disabling of these substations is part of Russia’s strategy to disconnect Ukrainian nuclear power plants from the energy grid, causing widespread power outages and heating shortages. The use of the Oreshnik missile poses a significant threat, as it can reach European targets within minutes from bases in countries like Belarus. The Kapustin Yar range, where the attack took place, serves as a testing ground for various missiles and defense systems, highlighting its strategic importance.
As tensions escalate, Ukrainian civilians are bearing the brunt of Russia’s attacks on energy infrastructure, leading to severe disruptions in power generation across the country. Ukrainian Territorial Defense Forces officer Oleksandr Musiienko raised concerns about Russia’s military preparations, including the readiness of strategic bombers armed with Kalibr missiles. He warned of a potential Oreshnik strike coinciding with the Davos summit to intimidate Western leaders and disrupt agreements benefiting Ukraine.
Recent Russian airstrikes have resulted in casualties and damage to residential areas in cities like Kharkiv and regions like Odesa, leaving multiple people injured amid freezing temperatures. The situation remains critical as both sides gear up for further escalation in the conflict.