Russia fired experimental ballistic missile at Ukraine. Now what?

In response to Ukraine's strike on Russian territory with UK/US made weapons that entailed casualties, Russia fired hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile "The Hazel" (Russian - "Oreshnik").

Putin added that the Ukraine war is taking on global character.

Moscow, U.S. officials say, briefed them of the use of the missile ahead of time - a clear sign of responsible behavior that seeks to avoid greater conflict.

Russia's theory of escalation suggests:

"In crisis situations, moving up the “ladder” of escalation is a reflection of the deterrence policy (by intimidation) of the opponent from implementing further aggressive actions.

The measures should be dosed to ensure deterrence without putting undue pressure on the opponent.

Effective deterrence means demonstrating a willingness to use force. However, deterrence alone is not enough to ensure and maintain stability: confidence-building measures and a certain transparency in the behavior of countries are needed."

For the moment we are in the process of forming new rules for the “game of escalation.” In this “game” Russia is behaving with the utmost restraint, in a somewhat textbook manner. The West, however, seeks to transfer the “fog of war” - a a feature of conventional wars - to the level of using “toys” of a more serious caliber. Previously, they were more cautious in this regard.

Loss of fear coupled with pride and loss of rational behavior is a dangerous combination.