Zelensky calls for urgent sanctions to stop Russian missile production

In Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has raised concerns about the mass production of the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile, emphasizing the urgency for imposing sanctions on more Russian defense companies. On June 20, 2025, during a press briefing, he revealed that a significant number of companies are engaged in the development of the Oreshnik missile, which was first launched by Russia in an attack against Dnipro on November 21, 2023. This missile serves not only as a new weapon for Russia but also as a tool for intimidation against Ukraine and its Western allies. Zelensky explained that 39 Russian defense companies are involved in the missile's production, with 21 of these companies currently not under any sanctions. These companies are crucial in receiving the parts and components necessary for the missile's development and production. The President’s statement points to the need for urgent action, noting that as long as these companies continue to operate without restrictions, Russia will be capable of progressing in its missile capabilities, leveraging these technologies to threaten Ukraine further. Despite ongoing sanctions, it has been reported that Russia may still manage to obtain advanced manufacturing equipment from Western companies. Ukrainian intelligence has highlighted two key institutes, the Moscow Institute for Thermal Technology and Sozvezdie, as developers of the Oreshnik missile. These institutions recently posted job listings requiring expertise in operating advanced German and Japanese manufacturing systems, which are critical in missile production. Moreover, a Financial Times report noted that significant amounts of components have still made their way to Russia, with at least $3 million in Heidenhain parts being shipped to the country in 2024. Zelensky has raised alarms about Russia's capability to mass-produce the Oreshnik missile and stressed that this situation is absolutely perplexing, especially when considering the ongoing restrictions imposed on the defense sector. As Russia bolsters its technological capacity through these companies, Zelensky's appeals for further sanctions underscore a critical point about the geopolitical dynamics in the region, highlighting the international community's responsibility to act against these developments in missile production and defense capabilities.