And if it had been an old CCCP satellite with spent nuclear fuel? The Russkies response, after we shot it down, would be to send the finest bottles of vodka to our NORAD generals.
Let us think about this VERY seriously, what if indeed?
Russia calls up NORAD, “We have this problem with satellite, you help?”
Navy has a sub in the area, aircraft carriers ALWAYS have subs nearby, sub launches rocket to take out a decaying orbital platform.
Its probably the best theory so far IMHO.