Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Russia is expanding its ballistic missile programme and could eventually develop weapons capable of striking targets up to 5,000 kilometres away.
According to a report by the Kyiv Post published on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Zelensky said Russia already possesses advanced ballistic missiles and is continuing to improve its long-range strike capabilities.
He cautioned that increasing the range of these weapons would significantly expand their reach beyond the current battlefield, potentially placing more countries within striking distance.
“It is only a matter of time” before Russia is able to deploy ballistic missiles capable of travelling up to 5,000 kilometres, Zelensky said, warning that such a development would heighten security concerns well beyond Eastern Europe.
The Ukrainian leader argued that Russia’s continued investment in its missile programme reflects Moscow’s determination to strengthen its long-range military capabilities despite international sanctions and the prolonged war in Ukraine.
Zelensky urged Ukraine’s international partners to maintain support for air and missile defence systems, stressing the need for continued cooperation to counter evolving missile threats and strengthen regional security.
His comments come as both Russia and Ukraine continue to use long-range missiles and drones in attacks on military infrastructure and other strategic targets.
The conflict has accelerated the development and deployment of advanced weapons by both sides, prompting growing concern among international observers over the increasing range and sophistication of modern missile systems.
Russia has not publicly responded to Zelensky’s latest assessment of its missile programme, and the reported 5,000-kilometre missile capability has not been independently verified.
The warning adds to broader concerns about the future course of the war, with analysts closely monitoring developments in long-range missile technology that could reshape the strategic balance and extend the geographical reach of future military operations.
