Russia-Ukraine war: Zelenskyy says domestically made ballistic missiles to be ready soon; could hit Moscow in fall

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that domestically produced ballistic missiles from Ukrainian firm Fire Point are expected to be operational within two to three months and could potentially target Moscow in the fall. This was revealed in an interview with Ukraine's state-run telethon on 8 August. Fire Point's FP7 ballistic missile is currently undergoing certification by the country's defense ministry, with the larger FP9 missile, capable of reaching Moscow, anticipated by late fall.

Zelenskyy acknowledged that while some components of these missiles are locally sourced, others come from other countries, including Russia. The interview also touched on the potential deployment of North Korean troops to Russian territory, with Zelenskyy noting that 30,000 to 50,000 North Koreans may be stationed there. He went on to mention that North Korean missiles have been found on Ukrainian soil and that North Korea will continue to gain experience and resources in modern warfare through its partnership with Russia.

The development of these missiles comes amid Russia's ongoing military offensive against Ukraine, with no resolution in sight for the nearly five-year conflict.