Key Highlights
- Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed the successful test of a new nuclear-powered cruise missile called Burevestnik.
- The missile is known to NATO as SSC-X-9 Skyfall and has almost unlimited range, evading current missile defenses.
- Slovakia announced it will not contribute financially to Ukraine’s military defense against Russian invasion.
- Russian special envoy Kirill Dmitriev met with US officials in Washington for talks on potential peace negotiations.
Putin Announces Successful Test of Nuclear Missile Burevestnik
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced that Russia successfully completed final tests of a new nuclear-powered cruise missile, the Burevestnik. Speaking to generals overseeing the war in Ukraine on October 26, 2025, Putin called the weapon “unique” and ordered preparations for its deployment.
During the test flight earlier this month, the missile traveled over 14,000 kilometers in a 15-hour journey. NATO refers to it as the SSC-X-9 Skyfall. Western analysts question its strategic value, suggesting that it adds little to Russia’s existing arsenal despite its advanced capabilities.
Slovakia Refuses Financial Aid for Ukraine
In a significant development, Slovakia has announced it will not contribute financially to Ukraine’s military defense against Russian invasion. Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico stated during a televised news conference on October 25, 2025, that his country will not participate in any European Union program aimed at financing military defenses for Ukraine.
Fico explained that Slovakia stopped state military aid for Ukraine when his government came to power in 2023 but has allowed commercial sales. “I refuse to allow Slovakia to take part in any financial scheme aimed at helping Ukraine manage the war and military spending,” Fico said, highlighting his stance as different from other European Union states.
Russian Envoy Meets US Officials for Peace Talks
While tensions remain high, Russian special envoy Kirill Dmitriev held meetings with US officials in Washington. Dmitriev met with the president’s special envoy Steve Witkoff on October 26, 2025, amidst discussions about potential peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
Dmitriev expressed confidence in continuing dialogue despite recent sanctions imposed by the United States on Russian oil companies aimed at encouraging peace talks. He emphasized the importance of such dialogue for world stability and respect for Russia’s national interests.
Continued Military Intensity
The military situation in Ukraine remains intense, with ongoing strikes from both sides. On October 25, 2025, Russian missiles struck Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv and Dnipropetrovsk, killing at least four people and injuring many more. In response, Ukraine’s air force intercepted most of the incoming missiles and drones.
Meanwhile, President Vladimir Putin continued to assert Russia’s military capabilities during his visit with generals overseeing the war in Ukraine. He emphasized that Russia’s nuclear deterrent forces are at their modern level of readiness, aligning with NATO exercises held over the North Sea to highlight tensions between Russia and Western nations.
