January 1, U.S. officials rattled after Russian missile test hits satellite

U.S. officials and lawmakers are sounding the alarm over fears that Russia seeks to militarize space after a missile test struck an inactive satellite.

“Yesterday’s anti-satellite test by the Russian military makes it clear that Moscow is willing to threaten the peaceful use of outer space, further militarize this domain, and disregard any consequences for all nations,” said House Armed Services Committee Chairman Adam Smith (D-WA).

The satellite explosion created hundreds of thousands of small pieces of debris, which officials say could threaten astronauts or other satellites. The timing was concerning as well, amid an aggressive military buildup near the Russia-Ukraine border.

“The American people deserve a responsible assessment and response to this event, and we must hold Russia accountable with the support of our allies and partners,” Smith said.

On Tuesday, Russia confirmed it was behind the test but dismissed America’s concerns, sparking calls from lawmakers imploring the Biden administration to take action.

Senate Armed Services Committee ranking member Sen. James Inhofe (R-OK) demanded that the Biden administration “make it clear to Putin, in no uncertain terms, that this is unacceptable.”

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Outcry grows over Russian missile test that hit satellite