Volodymyr Zelensky has launched an official investigation after reports that Russia launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at his country, suggesting the projectile had “all the characteristics” of such a weapon.

Meanwhile, Peter Stano, the European Union’s foreign affairs spokesman, has also voiced his concern as he accused Vladimir Putin of “taking a nuclear gamble”.

Mr Zelensky was commenting after the Ukrainian air force claimed Russia had launched the ICBM as part of a sustained bombardment overnight.

The Air Force claimed that six Kh-101 missiles were destroyed and said that casualties caused by the strikes were so far unknown.

The apparent attack comes just one day after Kyiv launched British-made Storm Shadow missiles at targets inside Russia.

Mr Zelensky said: “Today was a new Russian missile.

“All characteristics: speed, height – of an intercontinental ballistic missile. Examinations are ongoing now.”

Mr Stano said: “While we’re assessing the full facts, it’s obvious that such (an) attack would mark yet another clear escalation from the side of Putin.”

Mr Stano pointed out that an ICBM launch would mark a “quantitative and qualitative change” in the war.

An ICBM launch would mark a “quantitative and qualitative change” in the war, Mr Stano pointed out.

He added: “They are playing a nuclear gamble.

“Whether they really mean it, it’s very hard to foresee. We don’t see in their heads.

“We only know that this is irresponsible and this constitutes a global threat”.