Overview
- Russia said it successfully launched the Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, known to NATO as “Satan II,” which is designed to carry nuclear warheads.
- President Vladimir Putin called Sarmat the most powerful missile in the world and said it can fly up to 35,000 kilometers.
- Putin said the missile will enter combat service by the end of 2026.
- The New START treaty expired in February, removing key limits and inspections on U.S. and Russian arsenals, and high-level military talks have restarted without progress on renewal.
- U.S. President Donald Trump has pressed for a new nuclear accord that includes China, but Beijing has refused to join.