U.S. intelligence suggests that despite Putin's threats, Russia is "unlikely" to launch a nuclear strike.

The decision by Washington to allow Kyiv to use American-made weapons for strikes deep into Russia has not heightened the risk of a nuclear attack.

This was reported by Reuters, citing five sources familiar with intelligence data.

Despite recent statements from the Kremlin, the risk of a nuclear attack remains unlikely, according to Reuters' sources.

Intelligence assessments over the past seven months have indicated that nuclear escalation is unlikely to lead to a decision to ease restrictions on Ukraine's use of U.S. weapons.

“Assessments (from intelligence) have been consistent: ATACMS missiles were not expected to alter Russia's nuclear calculations,” said one congressional aide familiar with the intelligence data.

Meanwhile, Moscow is expected to expand its sabotage campaign against European targets to intensify pressure on the West over its support for Kyiv, two senior officials, including one in the U.S. Congress, informed the news agency.

One of the five U.S. officials also noted that Russia's launch of a new “Oreshnik” missile is a step towards escalation.

U.S. representatives stated that intelligence data helped quell contentious debates within the Joe Biden administration regarding whether Washington should ease restrictions on Ukraine's use of American weapons due to the risk of provoking Putin.

In mid-November, Biden permitted Ukraine to use ATACMS for strikes deep into Russia to strengthen Ukraine's position in potential negotiations. Previously, his administration had resisted supplying such weapons due to concerns about escalating tensions with Russia.

Background. Recall that Putin commented for the first time on Russia's strikes against Ukrainian energy infrastructure and threatened new launches of the “Oreshnik.” He stated that subsequent strikes with “Oreshniks” would target “decision-making centers.” He did not specify which centers, however.