Millions of phones across Ukraine received a false alert warning of an imminent Russian nuclear attack and radiation, sent through the country's Air Alert system on the evening of November 1. The message, written in Russian instead of the mandatory Ukrainian, was sent shortly before 11pm local time (9pm GMT) and warned of a nuclear attack involving an Oreshnik missile. A second message through the same app warned of radiation and chemical attacks, while some residents in cities like Kyiv were also alerted about street fighting and advised to cover their faces with a cloth.
Authorities confirm system compromise
Ukrainians endured 10 minutes of uncertainty before the country's air force said the system had been compromised by Russia. A Telegram post stated: 'The air alert app appears to have been subjected to enemy influence. There is no radiation threat! Stay calm and follow our updates on our channel!'
The terrifying nuclear warning read: 'Don't worry, an Oreshnik is overhead! A nuclear alert has been activated across Ukraine.'
Russian system also targeted
Russia said its emergency alert system was also hit by a suspected cyber attack. The Russian emergency app sent a fake message to residents claiming that an attack drone mounted with a nuclear warhead had been 'launched at all regions of Russia.' It urged people to stock up on food for three weeks and hide due to a 'risk of getting lively,' according to the BBC.
Attacks on energy infrastructure continue
While residents in both countries grappled with the warnings, Russian and Ukrainian armies fired at each other, targeting energy infrastructure. The Kstovo oil refinery was reportedly struck in Moscow, while Russian strikes targeted four energy production sites across Ukraine.
In the past, Russia has deployed the nuclear-capable Oreshnik ballistic missile against Ukraine, armed with a conventional warhead. The hypersonic missile could be fitted with a nuclear weapon and could reach Britain in 11 minutes or deliver missiles to other parts of Europe. As of December last year, the missile system was understood to be stationed in Belarus.
