Nov 5, 2023 - World

Russia says it test-fired ICBM from nuclear submarine

Rebecca Falconer

This pool photograph distributed by Russian state owned agency Sputnik shows Russia's President Vladimir Putin overseeing a training exercise of the forces and equipment of ground, sea and air components of nuclear deterrent forces via a video link in Moscow on October 25, 2023. — Russian President Vladimir Putin overseeing a training exercise of the forces and equipment of ground, sea and air components of "nuclear deterrent forces" via a video link in Moscow on Oct. 25. Photo: Gavriil Grigorov/Pool/AFP via Getty Images

Russia's military successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from its new strategic nuclear submarine, the Imperator Alexander III, the country's defense ministry said Sunday.

Why it matters: The announcement comes three days after Russian leader Vladimir Putin officially revoked the country's ratification of a global ban on nuclear weapons testing amid heightened tensions with the West over his war on Ukraine.

U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken said in a statement condemning the withdrawal that the move was part of a "disturbing and misguided effort to heighten nuclear risks and raise tensions as it pursues its illegal war against Ukraine."

Details: The Russian defense ministry said it launched the Bulava missile from an underwater position in the country's northern White Sea, striking a target in the far-eastern region of Kamchatka.

It can carry up to six nuclear warheads, according to the Federation of American Scientists.

The big picture: Putin has made several veiled nuclear threats since his military launched a full-scare invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, though he later denied he'd use them on the country and said he "only hinted in response to statements made by Western leaders."

Go deeper: A reality check on Putin's threat of nuclear war

Add Axios on Google

Russia says it test-fired ICBM from nuclear submarine

What to read next