INTERNATIONAL — May 13, 2026

Putin Announces Successful Test of Sarmat Nuclear Missile

President Vladimir Putin announced the successful test of the Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, which is expected to enter active service by the end of the year.

The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Bakhtar News2 min read

Putin Announces Successful Test of Sarmat Nuclear Missile
Image courtesy Bakhtar News

President Vladimir Putin has announced the successful testing of the Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, claiming that the weapon is the most powerful nuclear missile in the world. The missile is expected to be officially integrated into active service by the end of the current year, serving as a primary element of Russia's comprehensive nuclear modernization strategy.

According to Putin, the Sarmat missile is designed to replace the older Soviet-made Voyevoda missiles. He emphasized the strategic capabilities of the new system, stating that it is capable of striking targets at distances exceeding 35,000 kilometers.

This announcement follows the conclusion of the New START treaty, which previously governed nuclear arms limitations between Russia and the United States. Putin indicated that the Sarmat is part of a wider array of advanced weaponry being developed to ensure national security.

The Russian president further detailed that the country's new defense strategy incorporates several other high-tech systems. These include the Avangard hypersonic system and the Oreshnik missile, as well as the Poseidon underwater system and the Burevestnik cruise missile. Together, these assets are intended to modernize Russia's strategic deterrent capabilities and enhance the nation's overall defense posture in a changing global security environment.

Read the original reporting at Bakhtar News

Reliability assessment

The report provides direct, on-record attribution to a named public figure (President Vladimir Putin) regarding his statements. Per the verification rules, the fact that a named leader made these claims is a reliable and verifiable event.

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InternationalVladimir Putin, Russia, Sarmat, Nuclear Weapons, ICBM

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