In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia unleashed a massive missile and drone barrage on Kyiv and surrounding regions, deploying its hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile for the third time in the war against Ukraine. This devastating attack resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals and left approximately 100 others injured, as reported by Ukrainian officials.
The strike, which targeted Kyiv and the city of Bila Tserkva, led to extensive damage across multiple sectors. Residential buildings, schools, a water facility, government offices, and a large market were among the sites hit, igniting fires in several districts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the severe impact on civilian infrastructure during this assault.
Ukrainian authorities stated that nearly 600 drones and 90 missiles, including dozens of ballistic types, were launched by Russia during the overnight offensive. While air defenses intercepted many of these projectiles, several managed to hit central areas of Kyiv, causing significant destruction. Russia confirmed its use of the Oreshnik missile in the attack, claiming the operation targeted Ukrainian military sites as retaliation for alleged Ukrainian attacks in Russian-controlled areas.
The assault left no district of Kyiv untouched, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko, who noted widespread damage and commended emergency crews for rescuing those trapped and extinguishing fires. Cultural and governmental sites, including Ukraine’s National Art Museum and parts of the foreign ministry building, also suffered damages. Ukrainian officials condemned the strikes as deliberate attacks on civilian areas and cultural heritage.
European leaders swiftly denounced the assault, with French President Emmanuel Macron labeling the deployment of the Oreshnik missile as a dangerous escalation, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz calling it reckless. The European Union accused Russia of employing terror tactics against civilians. The Oreshnik, capable of carrying nuclear or conventional warheads, is noted for its hypersonic speed, though Western analysts have questioned some of Russia’s claims regarding its interception capabilities. This attack follows closely on the heels of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s warnings of retaliation over alleged Ukrainian drone strikes in Russian-held territories.