European leaders did not expect such a reaction. Russia responded to the peace phone call

Russia successfully launched the Bulava intercontinental missile from a submarine in the Sea of Okhotsk, hitting a target thousands of kilometers away. The missile carries ten independently targetable nuclear warheads, each significantly more powerful than the bomb dropped on Hiroshima. This test coincided with discussions between European leaders and Vladimir Putin regarding the Ukraine war and Britain's announcement of three strategic submarines at sea. Analysts suggest the test demonstrates Russia's ongoing verification of its strategic nuclear capabilities, although it does not indicate an imminent use of nuclear weapons. The Bulava missile, capable of carrying multiple warheads, underscores the importance of submarine forces in maintaining nuclear deterrence.