Russia has successfully conducted a test launch of its new-generation intercontinental ballistic missile, Sarmat, which President Vladimir Putin described as the world's most powerful. According to Al Jazeera, the announcement was made after a video aired on Russian state television showing Strategic Missile Forces Commander Sergei Karakaev informing Putin of the successful launch. Putin stated that the missile would be formally inducted into Russia’s armed forces by the end of the year.

Putin claimed that Sarmat’s warhead capacity is four times greater than comparable Western missiles and that it can travel more than 35,000 kilometers due to its sub-orbital flight capability. The missile, known in the West as “Satan 2,” has been in development since 2011 and is designed to replace the Soviet-era Voyevoda system. The report noted that the Sarmat program has faced setbacks, including a major explosion during a 2024 test.

The test comes amid renewed global security concerns following the expiration of the New START arms control treaty between Russia and the United States, leaving both nations free to develop nuclear weapons without formal limits.