Russia launched a devastating large-scale drone and missile assault on Kyiv, deploying its powerful hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed. The attack killed at least two people, injured 83, and caused widespread damage to residential areas, government buildings, and infrastructure. This marks the third recorded use of the Oreshnik missile in the conflict.
Russia Confirms Retaliation
Russia's Defence Ministry stated that the Oreshnik missile was used alongside other missile types against Ukrainian military and industrial targets. It described the assault as retaliation for Ukrainian strikes on civilian facilities within Russian territory. The extensive barrage consisted of 600 strike drones and 90 air, sea, and ground-launched missiles.
Ukraine's Air Defense Struggles
Ukrainian air defenses successfully destroyed or jammed 549 drones and 55 missiles, but failed to intercept all ballistic missiles, highlighting Ukraine's critical shortage of advanced air defense capabilities. President Zelenskyy reiterated the urgent need for enhanced support from Western allies.
Oreshnik: A Game-Changing Weapon
Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously described the Oreshnik as capable of traveling at Mach 10, immune to existing missile defense systems, and able to penetrate deep underground. He suggested that even with conventional warheads, its impact could be comparable to a nuclear strike. The devastating consequences have prompted despair among Kyiv residents, many of whom face destroyed homes and livelihoods.
