Russia's co-orbital ASAT weapons

General Stephen Whiting, head of U.S. Space Command, revealed that Russia has successfully deployed systems that can maneuver within close proximity to critical American assets in orbit.

These 'space stalkers' are designed to disable or destroy satellites through physical collision or other kinetic means.

The U.S. has responded by accelerating its own space defense programs and calling for new international norms to prevent a catastrophic conflict in Earth orbit.

This escalation comes as Russia continues to deepen its military ties with North Korea ahead of a major anniversary.