UK intelligence identifies purpose of Russia's Oreshnik missile launch: It was a message
Russia has launched the experimental Oreshnik missile as a strategic message to the world following the West's approval of Ukraine’s use of long-range weaponry for strikes deep within Russia.
Source: European Pravda, citing UK Ministry of Defence’s review of the Russo-Ukrainian war dated 29 November
Quote from intelligence: "The use of this experimental system against Ukraine was almost certainly intended as a strategic message following the use by Ukraine of Western missiles into Russia."
Details: The ministry recalled that in February 2019, Russia announced its withdrawal from the Intermediate Nuclear Forces Treaty, which prohibited the development and production of such missiles. However, UK intelligence believes the development of the Oreshnik likely began before that withdrawal.
British analysts indicate that the system is likely a variant of the RS-26 Rubezh ballistic missile, first tested in 2011. They estimate that Russia possesses only a few Oreshnik missiles and has yet to begin serial production.
The missile is also expected to be significantly more expensive than other missiles currently being used by Russia to strike Ukraine.
Background:
- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggested that Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin is sabre-rattling with the Oreshnik missile to prevent US President-elect Donald Trump from ending the Russo-Ukrainian war.
- Earlier, Zelenskyy and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte discussed Ukraine's specific air defence needs following Russia’s recent use of the new ballistic missile.
- The NATO-Ukraine Council also convened to address Russia’s deployment of the Oreshnik missile.
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