Putin proposes an "experimental" strike on Kyiv with Oreshnik

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has proposed to strike Kyiv with an Oreshnik missile to "test" whether Western air defense systems can intercept it. He also said "that he is interested in holding a technological duel of the 21st century.

This was stated by the Russian Prime Minister during a speech on a direct line combined with a "big" annual press conference on Thursday, December 19.

Putin threatens to strike Kyiv with "Oreshnik"

During his latest speech, Putin threatened to launch missile strikes against Ukraine. In particular, he "suggested" that Western experts who criticize Oreshink name any object in Kyiv and concentrate all air defense forces there. Then Russia would launch a strike to see if the air defense could intercept the missile.

"Let them identify a target in Kyiv. They will concentrate all air defense and missile defense there. And we will strike there with the Oreshnik. And we will see what happens. We are ready for this. Is the other side ready?" said the dictator.

In addition, he stated that he was "interested in conducting a technological duel of the 21st century". He proposed to use the capital of Ukraine as a test site.

Putin recently said that Oreshnik would be an alternative to nuclear weapons. He also noted that Russia is "not strengthening its nuclear doctrine, but improving it".

At the same time, the ISW questioned Russia's statements about the innovativeness of the Oreshnik.

On November 21, the Russian occupiers used an intercontinental ballistic missile against Ukraine for the first time. They hit Dnipro with the new weapon, causing destruction in the city. Novyny.LIVE told you what is known about this missile.