Why Putin Praises 'Oreshnik': ISW Explanation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the ballistic missile 'Oreshnik', which may indicate that Russia is seeking ways to exit nuclear weapons control. Experts note that Russia is developing its military capabilities alongside nuclear weapons, and 'Oreshnik' is the most powerful weapon. They lean towards the idea that this could be an attempt by Russia to move away from nuclear weapons.

Putin claims that 'Oreshnik' is capable of delivering a strike almost as powerful as a nuclear strike if used alongside other non-nuclear munitions. Experts see these statements as indicative of Russia's desire to abandon nuclear weapons and replace them with non-nuclear deterrent means.

Russia has used the threat of a nuclear strike to force Ukraine and the West into self-restraint. But Ukraine and the West continuously respond to this threat and do not succumb to it. Experts also note that 'Oreshnik' is not a new weapon, and Putin is presenting its technical characteristics to instill fear and pressure Ukraine and its partners.

They see this as a strategy of the Kremlin to maintain its authority in the international information space.

Recall that recently, the Russian missile 'Oreshnik' struck Dnipro, and Russia may soon launch another missile at Ukraine.