Kremlin’s showcasing of the hypersonic Oreshnik missile in the recent aggressive strike on Ukraine appears to be part of the strategic power play between Putin and Trump. Moscow’s assertion of retaliation following an alleged attack on Putin’s residence by Ukraine, a claim refuted by Washington and Kyiv, has further strained relations between the Trump administration and Moscow.
The use of the Oreshnik missile in the attack, along with nearly 300 other weapons, was emphasized by Russia, although its actual effectiveness remains uncertain. This move, amidst previous instances of deploying the Oreshnik, is seen as a symbolic gesture aimed at widening the divide between the Trump administration and NATO.
Putin’s motivation in highlighting the Oreshnik missile could be to reinforce the rift between the US and NATO, with a focus on Greenland acquisition discussions. The US’s interest in Greenland stems from the need for enhanced defense against hypersonic missiles like Oreshnik, requiring a more robust early warning system. This urgency is driven by the unique capabilities and challenges posed by hypersonic weaponry compared to traditional Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles.
The attack on Ukraine resulted in disruptions to basic services and heightened fear among civilians. The utilization of the Oreshnik missile potentially serves as a subtle warning to Trump, underlining the perceived necessity for acquiring Greenland and escalating tensions within NATO. This situation underscores a significant point of contention among NATO members, particularly between the UK and the US. Putin’s actions may indicate a sense of urgency to create divisions within NATO and isolate the US from its allies.