A devastating missile and drone attack by Russia targeted Kyiv and its surrounding areas, marking the third known use of its hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The assault resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals and left approximately 100 others injured, as reported by Ukrainian officials. The attack inflicted severe damage on residential buildings, schools, and government offices, as well as a water facility and a large market, sparking numerous fires across several districts.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the strikes hit both Kyiv and the nearby city of Bila Tserkva. In a massive overnight offensive, around 600 drones and 90 missiles, including dozens of ballistic types, were launched by Russia. Despite the interception of many, several missiles managed to hit central Kyiv, causing widespread destruction. The attack also took a toll on Ukraine’s cultural heritage, damaging the National Art Museum and parts of the foreign ministry building, which Ukrainian authorities have described as deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure.
The Russian government acknowledged the deployment of the Oreshnik missile alongside other advanced missile systems. Moscow justified the strikes by claiming they were in response to supposed Ukrainian attacks within Russian-controlled territories and asserted that Ukrainian military infrastructure was the intended target. The Oreshnik missile, first introduced by Russia in late 2024, is known for its hypersonic speed and capability to carry either nuclear or conventional warheads. While Russian President Vladimir Putin has touted the missile’s near-impenetrability, Western analysts have expressed skepticism over these claims.
In response to the attack, Kyiv’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, reported that damage was observed across all districts of the capital, with emergency services working to rescue those trapped in shelters and extinguish fires caused by the explosions. The assault drew strong condemnation from European leaders, with French President Emmanuel Macron labeling the use of the Oreshnik missile as a significant and dangerous escalation, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz calling it reckless. The European Union accused Russia of employing terror tactics against civilians.
This latest escalation occurred shortly after President Putin issued warnings of retaliation for what he described as Ukrainian drone strikes in areas under Russian control. The international community continues to watch the situation closely as tensions remain high between the two nations.