**Russia Closes Airspace Over Military Complex, Fueling Speculation of Ballistic Missile Launch**
Reports are emerging that Russia is closing its airspace over the Kapustin Yar military training and rocket launch complex from May 12 to 13. This has raised speculation about a possible ballistic missile launch, according to Ukrainian defense news outlet Militarnyi.
The closure was first reported on the U.S. Defense Department’s NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) website on May 10, as cited by Militarnyi. The airspace ban is similar to one that was in place from November 21 to 23 last year, ahead of Russia’s first strike with an Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile against Ukraine.
**Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missiles: A Game-Changer**
Russia regularly uses close and short-range ballistic missiles in aerial attacks against Ukraine. However, the use of intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs) and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) is far more significant, as they can be equipped with nuclear payloads and are designed to hit targets at much longer ranges.
The Oreshnik missile, which was used in the November strike, is particularly concerning. It’s designed to carry nuclear weapons, although the one that targeted the eastern city of Dnipro last fall was not armed with a nuclear warhead.
**Ukraine and US on High Alert**
Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) has declined to comment on the airspace closure, but the U.S. embassy in Kyiv issued a warning on May 9 that Russia could launch “a potentially significant” attack in the coming days. While this is not the first time the US has issued such warnings as part of its standard security protocols, it’s clear that both Ukraine and the US are on high alert.
**A Brief Advance Warning**
It’s worth noting that before Russia’s first strike with an Oreshnik against Ukraine last November, they gave the US a brief advance warning about the attack. This raises questions about whether Russia is following a similar pattern this time around.
As we continue to monitor the situation, it’s essential to remember that the use of ballistic missiles, especially those equipped with nuclear payloads, carries enormous risks and consequences. We will provide updates as more information becomes available.
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