US Intelligence Warns of Russian Missile Use

A U.S. intelligence assessment indicates that Russia may use its experimental Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile against Ukraine again in the near future. U.S. officials view the Oreshnik, first used in a missile attack on Dnipro on November 21, as more of an intimidation tactic rather than a significant game-changer on the battlefield, as Russia possesses only a few of these missiles which carry smaller warheads compared to others deployed. President Putin has previously threatened to target 'decision-making centers' in Kyiv if Ukraine continues using long-range Western weapons. The Oreshnik missile, capable of flying between 500 to 5,500 kilometers, is part of a new Russian strategy that may include potential nuclear responses to conventional attacks. As the war enters a critical phase, U.S. air defense exports to Ukraine are reportedly on the way to bolster its defenses.