Pakistan, May 13 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin praised the successful test launch of Russia's new Sarmat nuclear missile on Tuesday. He described the weapon as the world's most powerful strategic missile during televised remarks from Moscow. The announcement matters because the missile strengthens Russia's nuclear deterrence amid growing tensions with Western nations.

State television showed Strategic Missile Forces commander Sergei Karakayev reporting the launch results to Putin. Karakayev said the Sarmat missile system would significantly boost Russia's ground-based nuclear capabilities. Putin announced that Russia planned to place the missile on combat duty before the end of 2026.

Read more: Putin says Russia will deploy new Sa...