Putin says Russia’s nuclear-armed underwater drone was tested successfully

MOSCOW — Russia has successfully tested a new atomic-powered and nuclear-capable underwater drone, announced President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday. Putin emphasized that the new weapon is unstoppable and cannot be intercepted.

Putin’s statement, following his recent praise for a successful test of a new nuclear-powered cruise missile, is seen as another signal to U.S. President Donald Trump that Russia is firm in its demands regarding Ukraine.

During a meeting with soldiers wounded in Ukraine, Putin revealed that the Poseidon drone was tested using nuclear power for the first time on Tuesday, marking a significant achievement. He described Poseidon as unparalleled in speed and depth, stating that it is impossible to intercept.

Putin highlighted that the nuclear reactor powering Poseidon is much smaller than those on submarines, and its nuclear warhead is more powerful than that of the prospective Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile.

The underwater nuclear-powered drone Poseidon was first mentioned by Putin in his 2018 state-of-the-nation address, along with other advanced weapons. Reports suggest that Poseidon is designed to detonate near coastlines, causing a devastating radioactive tsunami.

Putin confirmed that Poseidon operated on nuclear power for the first time during the recent test but did not disclose the location or further details.

Additionally, Putin shared new insights about the Burevestnik cruise missile, revealing that its nuclear reactor is significantly smaller than that of a submarine.

Gen. Valery Gerasimov, Russia’s chief military officer, reported to Putin that the Oct. 21 test of Burevestnik was a resounding success, covering 14,000 kilometers during a 15-hour flight using nuclear fuel.

Putin’s recent emphasis on Russia’s nuclear capabilities coincides with the country’s military actions in Ukraine and the strained relations with the U.S. following Trump’s sanctions and postponement of a planned summit.

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