Russia unleashed a significant missile and drone strike on Kyiv and nearby regions, employing its hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile for the third time during the conflict with Ukraine. Ukrainian officials reported that the assault resulted in the deaths of at least four people and left approximately 100 others injured. The attack targeted Kyiv and the city of Bila Tserkva, as stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, causing damage to residential buildings, schools, a water facility, government offices, and a large market, with fires igniting across several districts.
During the overnight assault, Ukraine claimed that Russia launched nearly 600 drones and 90 missiles, including dozens of ballistic missiles. While many of these were intercepted, some managed to hit central areas of Kyiv, leading to significant destruction. Russia confirmed its use of the Oreshnik missile alongside other advanced missile systems, asserting that the strikes were aimed at Ukrainian military infrastructure and were in retaliation for alleged Ukrainian attacks within Russian-controlled territories.
Kyiv’s Mayor, Vitali Klitschko, reported that damage occurred across every district of the capital. Emergency services were involved in rescuing individuals trapped in shelters and extinguishing fires caused by the explosions. The attacks also inflicted damage on Ukraine’s National Art Museum and parts of the foreign ministry building. Ukrainian authorities labeled the strikes as intentional assaults on civilian infrastructure and cultural heritage.
European leaders have sharply criticized the attack, with French President Emmanuel Macron describing the deployment of the Oreshnik missile as a dangerous escalation. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz characterized it as reckless, and officials from the European Union accused Russia of employing terror strategies against civilians. The Oreshnik missile, introduced by Russia in late 2024, possesses the capability to carry nuclear or conventional warheads and is reported to travel at hypersonic speeds. Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed that the missile is nearly impossible to intercept, though some western analysts have expressed skepticism regarding these claims.
This latest offensive occurred shortly after President Putin issued warnings of retaliation in response to alleged Ukrainian drone strikes in areas under Russian control. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in a conflict that has drawn international condemnation and concern.