Reports from U.S. intelligence agencies and verified news reports

US Intelligence Warns Russia May Launch Lethal Experimental Oreshnik Missile at Ukraine

Dec 11, 2024, 03:19 PM

The United States has warned that Russia may launch another experimental hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile, known as the Oreshnik, against Ukraine in the coming days, according to U.S. intelligence assessments. The missile, considered lethal, carries a smaller payload than the Iskander system but has a longer range. Despite its capabilities, Washington does not view the Oreshnik as a game-changer in the ongoing conflict, but rather as an attempt to terrorize Ukraine. Russia previously deployed the Oreshnik in a strike on the city of Dnipro last month. The U.S. remains focused on providing Ukraine with the necessary air defenses to protect against Russian missiles and drones. Notably, airspace above Russia's Kapustin Yar Test Site Range is closed from December 7th to December 15th, potentially indicating preparations for another missile launch.