In a recent escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia unleashed a substantial missile and drone barrage on Kyiv and nearby regions, prominently featuring its hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile for the third time in the Ukraine war. This assault resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals and left approximately 100 others injured, according to reports from Ukrainian officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy detailed that the strikes were directed at Kyiv as well as the city of Bila Tserkva in the adjoining area. The attack inflicted damage on residential buildings, schools, a water facility, government offices, and a large market, igniting fires in several districts. The onslaught involved nearly 600 drones and 90 missiles overnight, with dozens being ballistic missiles. Although many were intercepted, several managed to hit central Kyiv, causing extensive damage.
Moscow confirmed the deployment of the Oreshnik missile alongside other sophisticated missile systems, asserting that the strikes aimed at Ukrainian military assets and were in retaliation for alleged Ukrainian attacks within Russian-controlled territories. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported that damage was widespread, affecting every district of the capital. Emergency services were engaged in rescuing individuals trapped in shelters and extinguishing fires resulting from the explosions.
The attack also led to damage to Ukraine’s National Art Museum and parts of the foreign ministry building. Ukrainian authorities condemned the strikes as intentional assaults on civilian infrastructure and cultural sites. The response from European leaders was swift and severe; French President Emmanuel Macron criticized the use of the Oreshnik missile as a perilous escalation, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz labeled it reckless. European Union officials accused Russia of employing terror tactics against civilians.
First introduced by Russia in late 2024, the Oreshnik missile is known for its capability to carry either nuclear or conventional warheads and is reputed to travel at hypersonic speed. Russian President Vladimir Putin has asserted the missile’s near-immunity to interception, though some Western analysts have raised doubts about these claims. This latest military action followed closely on the heels of Putin’s warning of retaliation in response to alleged Ukrainian drone strikes in areas under Russian control.