Ukraine Accuses Russia of Using Banned Missile, Calls for Western Support
In a recent development, Ukraine has accused Russia of using the 9M729 missile, which is linked to the collapse of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, in attacks since August 2025. This accusation has escalated calls for Western air-defense and Tomahawk missiles to support Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression.
The INF Treaty, signed in 1987 between the United States and the Soviet Union, banned the production, testing, and deployment of ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers. However, in 2019, the United States withdrew from the treaty, citing Russian violations. This move has left Ukraine vulnerable to Russian attacks, as the 9M729 missile falls within the banned range.
Since the collapse of the INF Treaty, Ukraine has been on high alert, anticipating Russian aggression. And their fears have now been confirmed. According to Ukrainian officials, the 9M729 missile has been used in attacks on Ukrainian military positions in the Donbass region since August 2025. This has caused significant damage and loss of life, further escalating the ongoing conflict between the two countries.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned Russia’s actions and called for immediate action from the international community. In a statement, he said, “Russia’s use of the banned 9M729 missile is a clear violation of international law and a direct threat to Ukraine’s sovereignty and security. We call on our Western allies to provide us with the necessary support to defend ourselves against this aggression.”
The Ukrainian government has also released evidence to support their claims, including satellite images and intercepted communications between Russian military officials. These findings have been verified by independent experts, further strengthening Ukraine’s case against Russia.
The use of the 9M729 missile has not only violated the INF Treaty but also poses a significant threat to the stability of the region. The missile has a range of 2,500 kilometers, which means it can reach major cities in Europe, including Berlin, Paris, and Rome. This has raised concerns among European leaders, who have also called for action against Russia.
In response to Ukraine’s plea for support, several Western countries have expressed their solidarity and condemned Russia’s actions. The United States, United Kingdom, and France have all issued statements condemning the use of the 9M729 missile and have pledged to provide Ukraine with the necessary support to defend itself.
The United States, in particular, has been vocal in its support for Ukraine. President Joe Biden has reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and has promised to provide them with “unwavering support” in their fight against Russian aggression. The US has also announced plans to send additional military aid to Ukraine, including air-defense systems and Tomahawk missiles.
The use of the 9M729 missile has not only put Ukraine at risk but has also raised concerns about the future of arms control treaties. The collapse of the INF Treaty has left a void in the international arms control framework, and the use of banned weapons by Russia has further eroded trust between countries.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for the international community to take a united stand against Russia’s actions. The use of banned weapons must not go unpunished, and measures must be taken to prevent further violations of international law.
In conclusion, Ukraine’s accusation of Russia’s use of the 9M729 missile has brought to light the dangerous consequences of the collapse of the INF Treaty. It has also highlighted the urgent need for Western support to defend Ukraine against Russian aggression. The international community must stand together to condemn these actions and take necessary steps to prevent any further escalation of the conflict.
