The United States has accused Russia of a “dangerous and inexplicable escalation” in its war on Ukraine, citing the recent use of a nuclear-capable Oreshnik ballistic missile and raising concerns at an emergency UN Security Council meeting.

US officials warned that Russia’s actions risk intensifying the conflict at a time when President Donald Trump is pushing for peace negotiations.

Despite the warning, Russia launched fresh strikes on Ukraine, killing civilians in Kharkiv and triggering air defences in Kyiv.

Moscow said the missile attack targeted a military facility and was retaliation for an alleged Ukrainian strike attempt, a claim denied by Kyiv and dismissed by Washington, Al-Jazeera has reported.

At the UN, Russia blamed Ukraine for the lack of progress toward peace, while Ukraine argued that Russia’s show of strength masks growing economic and military vulnerabilities.