In a significant escalation of the conflict, Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack on Kyiv and its surrounding regions, employing the hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile for only the third time in the ongoing Ukrainian war. This offensive resulted in the tragic loss of at least four lives and left approximately 100 individuals injured, as reported by Ukrainian authorities. The strike focused on Kyiv and the nearby city of Bila Tserkva, causing extensive damage to residential areas, educational institutions, a water facility, government offices, and a major market. Fires erupted across various districts as a consequence.
Ukraine disclosed that around 600 drones and 90 missiles were deployed by Russia during the nocturnal assault, including numerous ballistic missiles. While a significant number were intercepted, several managed to hit central Kyiv, leading to substantial destruction. Moscow acknowledged the deployment of the Oreshnik missile among other sophisticated systems, asserting that the attacks were aimed at Ukrainian military infrastructure in retaliation for alleged Ukrainian strikes in Russian-occupied territories. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported widespread damage throughout the capital, with emergency services working to rescue individuals trapped in shelters and extinguish fires.
The assault also inflicted damage on cultural and governmental sites, including Ukraine’s National Art Museum and parts of the foreign ministry building. Ukrainian officials condemned the strikes as intentional attacks on civilian infrastructure and cultural heritage. The use of the Oreshnik missile, which was first employed by Russia in late 2024 and can carry both nuclear and conventional warheads, has been characterized by Russian President Vladimir Putin as nearly impossible to intercept. However, these claims have been met with skepticism by Western analysts.
European leaders were quick to denounce the attack, with French President Emmanuel Macron labeling the use of the Oreshnik missile as a perilous escalation, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the actions as reckless. The European Union accused Russia of employing terror tactics against civilians. The attack followed closely on the heels of Putin’s warnings of retaliation for alleged Ukrainian drone strikes in areas under Russian control, marking a continued intensification of hostilities in the region.