Russia has ended the testing phase of the Burevestnik, a nuclear ballistic missile that, according to NATO‑classified documents released to the public on November 14, is a major threat to the Alliance’s defense. The weapon can reach a speed of 560 mph (900 km/h), and is propelled by a nuclear reactor that gives it unlimited range. It boasts high maneuverability and can be launched from a mobile platform.
The main threat of the weapon is its capability to travel long distances, which would allow it to hit targets in Europe, passing through polar or southern regions that have little to no surveillance. On the other hand, analysts say that its lack of hypersonic speed is a weak point that could make the missile vulnerable.
Once a more cooperative partnership, ties between the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and Moscow have deteriorated sharply, today resembling the tense standoff of the Cold War. NATO leaders view Russia as a direct security threat, but repeated warnings and condemnations from the Alliance have so far had little effect on the Kremlin.
So, how has a previously constructive relationship between NATO and Russia turned so fractious? Click through this gallery and find out more about why Russia fell out with NATO.