Pentagon Cautions of Potential Russian Missile Strike on Ukraine
WASHINGTON (AP) — Concerns are mounting at the Pentagon over the possible use of Russia’s new intermediate-range ballistic missile, the Oreshnik, against Ukraine. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh indicated on Wednesday that such an attack could happen “in the coming days,” as Russia and Ukraine struggle for leverage in their conflict. The missile, while not deemed a “game changer” by the U.S., represents an effort by Russia to employ its arsenal against Ukraine.
The warning from the Pentagon is based on recent intelligence assessments, though specific details about potential targets remain undisclosed. U.S. officials, who spoke anonymously, confirmed signs that Russia is preparing for another launch, echoing the missile’s debut use last month.
The geopolitical tension is further complicated by President-elect Donald Trump’s commitment to ending the war, as Western allies hint at possible negotiations this winter. Meanwhile, the U.S. is reinforcing its support for Ukraine, recently pledging close to $1 billion in security aid, including air defense munitions.
Russia’s response to Ukrainian military actions has been assertive. The Russian Defense Ministry has threatened retaliation after accusing Ukraine of using U.S.-made ATACMS missiles in an attack on a military base in Taganrog. The ministry vowed that such “attacks with Western long-range weapons will not be left unanswered.”
This episode is not the first instance of U.S. warnings about potential Russian military actions. Prior to Russia’s February 2022 invasion, the U.S. had openly discussed intelligence indicating preparations for an invasion of Ukraine and possible false-flag operations.
Details about the Oreshnik missile reveal that its warhead is smaller compared to other missiles used by Russia against Ukraine. It was first deployed in a November 21 attack on Dnipro, capturing attention with its rapid and destructive impact.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has been vocal about the missile’s potential, stating that its multiple warheads, moving at Mach 10, are almost impossible to intercept. Despite its conventional nature, the missile’s power is likened to a nuclear strike.
The Pentagon describes the Oreshnik as an experimental intermediate-range ballistic missile, derived from Russia’s RS-26 Rubezh ICBM, but clarifies it lacks a hypersonic glide vehicle. Such intermediate-range missiles were previously banned under a treaty which both nations exited in 2019.
Amidst the escalating conflict, both nations are vying for a strategic advantage in anticipation of future negotiations. With Trump’s imminent inauguration, discussions about the level of U.S. support for Ukraine are intensifying. Trump has urged for an immediate ceasefire and implied that Ukraine may face reduced U.S. military aid, while President Joe Biden’s administration recently announced a substantial aid package to Ukraine, contributing to the over $62 billion provided since the invasion began.
