Politics

Vladimir Putin challenges US, western powers to shoot down powerful new Russian missile: “No chance”

Published

1 year ago

December 21, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed a “high-technology duel” with the US to test the Oreshnik, Russia’s advanced hypersonic ballistic missile
The Oreshnik missile, capable of speeds up to 8,500 mph and carrying nuclear warheads, has already been deployed in Ukraine, targeting Dnipro
Putin challenged the US to select a target for a live demonstration, claiming Western missile defences would fail against Russia’s new weapon
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the challenge, questioning Putin’s rationality

Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has issued a direct challenge to the United States.

Putin proposed a “high-technology duel” to test the effectiveness of Russia’s latest hypersonic ballistic missile, the Oreshnik.

The head of state made the proposition during his annual end-of-year press conference, a platform he often uses to assert Russia’s strength.

Military.com reports the Oreshnik missile, named after the Russian word for hazel tree, is an advanced intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads.

It reportedly reaches speeds up to 8,500 miles per hour, making it a formidable addition to Russia’s arsenal.

What is Putin’s challenge to US and allies

Putin’s challenge involves the US selecting a target to defend, against which Russia would launch the Oreshnik on Kyiv to demonstrate its ability to penetrate advanced missile defence systems.

“We’re ready for such an experiment,” expressing confidence that Western technology “stands no chance” against this new weapon.

In November, Russia deployed the Oreshnik against a military facility in Dnipro, Ukraine, marking its first known use in combat.

This action was framed as retaliation for Ukraine’s use of Western-supplied missiles, such as the US ATACMS and British Storm Shadow, in strikes against Russian territories.

How did Ukraine respond to Putin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to Putin’s challenge, questioning the rationality of such a proposal.

“Do you think he is a sane person?” Zelenskyy posed to reporters at his latest news conference as reported by Al Jazeera.

He went on to say that Ukraine and Russia had failed to strike an agreement during early-war discussions in Istanbul.

This comes after Putin stated that a tentative deal agreed by Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in Istanbul during the early weeks of the war may serve as the foundation for future conversations.

“Ukraine did not agree to the ultimatum from the Russian Federation. Ukraine did not sign anything, no agreements existed. There was a response to the ultimatum from the Russian Federation,” he declared.

Politics

David Mark Holds Secret Meeting With PRP Leaders as ADC Crisis Deepens

Published

7 days ago

April 12, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

The embattled National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, David Mark, on Friday held a closed-door meeting with leaders of the Peoples Redemption Party in Abuja. The private consultation is seen as a fresh round of political moves as the ADC continues to battle a lingering leadership crisis and growing internal divisions.

Top figures from both parties were said to be present at the meeting, including PRP National Chairman Hakeem Baba-Ahmed and senior ADC officials. The development is already drawing attention as opposition parties continue realignments ahead of the 2027 political season, with many watching closely for possible alliances and next steps in the party crisis.

Politics

“ADC is a Holy Party, Cannot be used to Scam Nigerians Again” – Hon Success Opara tells David Mark

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

ADC Party in Turmoil: Hon Success Opara Slams Leadership, Warns Against Scamming Nigerians

Abuja, Nigeria – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing internal strife as Hon Success Opara, a prominent party official, has warned against attempts to use the party to deceive Nigerians. Opara specifically criticized the leadership of David Mark, stating that the party cannot be used to scam citizens again.

“ADC holy Party cannot be used to scam Nigerians again,” Opara said, emphasizing that those forming coalitions are hindering the party’s growth and denying youths opportunities to thrive.

“Those who are forming coalition don’t want to give the youths the chance to strive in the party,” she added.

Opara’s statement highlights the deepening divisions within the ADC, with concerns over leadership and the party’s direction.

Politics

2027: Bala declares aspirants over 55 years disqualified in ADC

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

The factional National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nafiu Bala Gombe, has announced that the party under his leadership will bar individuals above the age of 55 from contesting for political positions.

Gombe made the disclosure during an interview with BBC Hausa, where he outlined a vision centred on generational change and greater youth participation in politics.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is a party that belongs to all Nigerians. What we are doing now is to ensure the party moves forward properly.

“We have decided that we will give the youths a real chance. The time has come for young people to take the lead in politics.

“If you are over 55 years old, you are not going to contest for positions in the ADC under our leadership.

“We want to bring in fresh blood, new ideas, and energy from the youth. Nigeria’s future depends on the young generation.

“The old ways have not worked well for the country. We need to open the door wide for youths to participate fully as candidates, leaders, and decision-makers,” he said.